Could anyone imagine that grey and yellow would be the perfect dance partner? Moreover, that they would come to mark and influence this uncertain year that lies ahead of us? According to Pantone, the world authority on colour, nothing is impossible and the entrance to the new 20s will be tinted with Ultimate Gray and Illuminating , this unique colour duet that they assure “combines deep sensations of reflection with the optimistic promise of a sunny day”.
It is not the first time that an ambitious colour pairing has been chosen to represent the colour trends that will influence aesthetic aspects related to fashion, design, advertising or decoration, among others. In 2016, for example, Serenity blue and Quartz pink (known as Millennial pink) were also chosen as a combination. Instead, the 2020 election was motivated by different reasons, influenced by the current context of the pandemic and its social consequences, based on a contrast between strength and hope. Two important attributes that will mark 2021.
Positivity with strength
On the one hand, Ultimate Gray represents firmness. According to Pantone, it “evokes feelings of solidity and reliability that are timeless and provide a firm foundation.” The fortress is painted grey, hard and difficult to break. In nature, “this colour is present in the pebbles that we see on the beach, in the rocks and stones that have been permanently and immobile on the face of the Earth for thousands of years. ” Therefore, this shade of grey is able to withstand the test of time. To itself, “Ultimate Gray inspires calm assurance and conveys feelings of composure, stability and resilience,” explains Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute. For example, in fashion, what colour would the sweatpants that have lived in most homes and have become the most used garment in confinement?
On the other hand, Ultimate Gray is paired with an energetic, clear and hopeful tone to overcome a situation of sustained uncertainty. This contrasting colour is Illuminating, a bright and cheerful yellow that generates vivacity and effervescence and that in nature inevitably refers us to the sun’s rays. This shade symbolizes hope, positivity and all the good that awaits us during 2021. Thus, the union of an imperishable Ultimate Gray with the vibrant yellow that represents the Illuminating, expresses a message of positivity combined with strength”, according to Leatrice Eiseman. “A practical and solid colour combination, yet warm and optimistic at the same time that offers resilience and hope. We need to feel encouraged and comforted, it is essential for the human soul, ” she concludes.
In fact, the annual choice of a colour that will guide a given year is not the result of chance. Pantone analysts base their final decision on rigorous research and international market analysis. ” The Pantone Color of the Year reflects everything that is happening in our global culture, a colour that expresses the needs of individuals and the colour can give an answer, ” added Laurie Pressman, vicepresident at the Institute Pantone Color. Pressman who also assures that “at a time when society continues to recognize colour as a critical form of communication and as a way of symbolizing thoughts and ideas, a large number of designers and brands are adopting the language of colour to interact and connect ”.
Ultimate Gray + Illuminating on the catwalk
The union of these antagonistic shades has been uploaded to the catwalks and is very present in the spring-summer 2021 collections. Prada, Jacquemus, Emilio Pucci, Balmain or Salvatore Ferragamo had already chosen this chromatic alliance in the new spring proposals. Two tones that have an impact on clothing, on the fabrics that are chosen and that will determine our way of combining and choosing current garments. According to Pantone, Ultimate Gray + Illuminating in clothing and fashion accessories conveys a message of sunshine and strength because the evergreen grey provides an excellent counterpoint to yellow, bringing some light to small details and clothing accessories. For example, with its energetic presence, the union of the two shades represents an excellent combination in sportswear, coats and in outerwear.
From Gratacós we have several seasonal fabrics that mix the two colours of 2021. Most are floral prints or geometric-inspired prints. The best of all? Right now we have them at irresistible prices. Do not miss the new promotion of fabrics in our online store.
