2016 Color of the Year

Aftershocks

Colors and their effect on us has always intrigued me. I began an in-depth research on Color Psychology as part of my Post Graduate Thesis. With an intent to inspire a feeling of well-being, the cover sheet predominantly showcased 2 colors –
Soft Rose and Sky Blue.

Over a decade later, the Pantone Color Institute names their “Color of the Year 2016” and I come face to face with the same 2 colors. They call them –
Rose Quartz and Serenity.

These two colors, when looked at individually, may seem banal. However, the two of them taken together is very illuminating. I believe this new trend is a result of our recent past. A tumultuous 2015 has left us all longing for a sense of tranquility and well-being.

The Pantone Color Institute resonates this very thought with their choice.

“As consumers seek mindfulness and well-being as an antidote to modern day stresses, welcoming colors that psychologically fulfill our yearning for reassurance and security are becoming more prominent.” – pantone.com

There is further affirmation of this theory in the Style Trends released by other major players in the Design and Style Industry.

Sherwin Williams presents us with Alabaster

Alabaster represents a straightforward and necessary shift to mindfulness. It provides an oasis of calmness, spirituality and ‘less is more’ visual relief. Alabaster is neither stark nor overly warm, but rather an understated and alluring white.” – Jackie Jordan, Sherwin-Williams Director of Color Marketing

Benjamin Moore’s Color of the Year 2016 is called Simply White

White accepts and embraces anything that you place next to it. There is an honesty when you think of white in nature.” – benjaminmoore.com

In conclusion, I believe that what began in 2015 as a trend towards Wellness has continued and solidified into a Holistic Lifestyle. This Lifestyle, Ladies and Gentlemen, is here to stay. As you step into 2016 and begin thinking about design and style in your life –
“Think Warm, Think Simple, Think Serene.” – Jasmine