Each year the Pantone Color Institute chooses one hue to honor and 2019 brought us the subtly-vibrant Pantone #16-1546 “Living Coral” to the forefront.
A salmon-peachy orange with a New Orleans Saints gold undertone the color evokes a soft sentiment that might have one thinking ’57 Chevy and the innocence of Pat Boone.
Living Coral is said to represent a reaction to the onslaught of digital technology and social media in daily life, as people increasingly seek authentic and immersive experiences that enable connection and intimacy. “With consumers craving human interaction and social connection, the humanizing and heartening qualities displayed by the convivial Living Coral hit a responsive chord,” says Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of The Pantone Color Institute.
For decades, Pantone’s Color 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.
The Color of the Year selection process requires discernment and trend analysis. Arriving at the selection each year, Pantone’s team studies the market looking for new color inspirations. This can include the entertainment industry, art collections and artists, fashion, all areas of design, travel destinations, as well as new lifestyles, play styles, and socio-economic conditions.
Influences may also come from new technologies, materials, textures, and effects that impact color, relevant social media platforms and even upcoming sporting events that capture worldwide attention.
With 2020 right around the corner it will be interesting to see what trends Pantone is seeing and studying this year. We will let you know!
Shutterstock has a great read that might inspire Living Coral into your next packaging design: