Weightless and airy, like the expanse of the blue sky above us, Serenity comforts with a calming effect, bringing feelings of respite and relaxation even in turbulent times. Rose Quartz is a persuasive yet gentle tone that conveys compassion and a sense of composure.

“With the whole greater than its individual parts, joined together Serenity and Rose Quartz demonstrate an inherent balance between a warmer embracing rose tone and the cooler tranquil blue, reflecting connection and wellness as well as a soothing sense of order and peace,” said Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute.

The prevalent combination of Serenity and Rose Quartz also challenges some more traditional perceptions around colour association. “In many parts of the world we are experiencing a gender blur as it relates to fashion, which has in turn impacted colour trends throughout all other areas of design,” said Eiseman. “This more multilateral approach to colour is coinciding with societal movements toward gender equality and fluidity, the consumers’ increased comfort with using colour as a form of expression which includes a generation that has less concern about being typecast or judged, and an open exchange of digital information that has opened our eyes to different approaches to colour usage.”

Serenity and Rose Quartz for Fashion

The combination of Serenity and Rose Quartz was featured on the runways for both men and women and highlighted in the PANTONE Fashion Colour Report Spring 2016 with Emilio Pucci, Leanne Marshall, BCBG and Richard James, among others who incorporated this harmonious colour pairing into their recent collections. Playful yet sophisticated, this colour duo makes a striking statement on its own, though it works equally well as an accent when joined with other shades. With playful escapism as a theme for many, the pairing of shades can be expressed through patterning, plaids, floral prints, striping and colour blocking. Variations of this hue will be seen in a variety of textures that make it wearable throughout the year, from warming and comforting plush wools and faux furs to more ethereal feeling, lightweight linens and cottons. Serenity and Rose Quartz are also a popular choice for jewellery and fashion accessories, including handbags, hats, footwear and wearable technology.

This engaging combination also works easily with other mid-tones, including cooler greens and purples. Pair with Lime Popsicle and Silver for some splash and sparkle, Old Rose for some tender nostalgia, or the velvety Fondue Fudge, which makes for a rich background.

Serenity and Rose Quartz for Interiors

Whether on their own or combined with other shades, the pairing of Serenity and Rose Quartz brings a feeling of calm and relaxation into the home environment. Like a serene sunset, Rose Quartz encourages reflection on one’s surroundings while Serenity, a transcendent blue, provides a naturally connected sense of space. An ideal choice for rugs and upholstery, Serenity and Rose Quartz also work well in paint and for decorative accessories. Coupling solid and patterned fabrics, throws, pillows and bedding in these shades provides a comforting respite and feeling of well-being in the home. Incorporating texture enhances the duality and kinship of these hues. Serenity and Rose Quartz coloured kitchen items and tableware, as well as home accessories like candles, decorative bowls, vases and florals, add subtle colour accents while contributing to a welcoming and peaceful space. Translucent, glazing, matte and metallic shine are key finishes.

About the PANTONE Colour of the Year

The Colour of the Year selection process requires thoughtful consideration and trend analysis. To arrive at the selection each year, Pantone’s colour experts at the Pantone Color Institute comb the world looking for new colour influences. This can include the entertainment industry and films in production, traveling art collections and new artists, fashion, all areas of design, popular travel destinations, as well as new lifestyles, playstyles and socio-economic conditions. Influences may also stem from new technologies, materials, textures and effects that impact colour, relevant social media platforms and even up-coming sporting events that capture worldwide attention.

For 16 years, Pantone’s Colour of the Year has influenced product development and purchasing decisions in multiple industries, including fashion, home furnishings and industrial design, as well as product packaging and graphic design. Past selections for Colour of the Year include:

PANTONE 18-1438 Marsala (2015) PANTONE 18-3224 Radiant Orchid (2014) PANTONE 17-5641 Emerald (2013) PANTONE 17-1463 Tangerine Tango (2012) PANTONE 18-2120 Honeysuckle (2011) PANTONE 15-5519 Turquoise (2010) PANTONE 14-0848 Mimosa (2009) PANTONE 18-3943 Blue Iris (2008) PANTONE 19-1557 Chili Pepper (2007) PANTONE 13-1106 Sand Dollar (2006) PANTONE 15-5217 Blue Turquoise (2005) PANTONE 17-1456 Tigerlily (2004) PANTONE 14-4811 Aqua Sky (2003) PANTONE 19-1664 True Red (2002) PANTONE 17-2031 Fuchsia Rose (2001) PANTONE 15-4020 Cerulean (2000)

The colours selected as our Pantone Colour of the Year 2016 were taken from the PANTONE FASHION, HOME + INTERIORS Colour System, the most widely used and recognized colour standards system for fashion, textile, home and interior design. This August, PANTONE released 210 new colours to the system. PANTONE 15-3919 Serenity and PANTONE 13-1520 Rose Quartz are included in this collection of 210 new shades. For more information on the PANTONE Colour of the Year for 2016, please visit: store.pantone.com