For the first time since its conception, Pantone has chosen TWO colors of the year. Whaaaat? That’s right, folks. TWO COLORS. May I introduce to you Pantone’s 2016 Color(s) of the Year…Rose Quartz (13-1520) and Serenity (15-3919).

In their company post, Pantone shared the idea that consumers are welcoming colors that psychologically fulfill their desire for reassurance and security. Executive Director Leatrice Eiseman of the Pantone Istitute of color said, “Joined together, Rose Quartz and Serenity 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.”

Another reason why this color combination was chosen as Color of the Year was that the grouping of Rose Quartz and Serenity Blue challenges the our cultural norm, our traditional associations between color and gender. Pantone said, “In many parts of the world we are experiencing a gender blur as it relates to fashion, which has in turn impacted color trends throughout all other areas of design. This more unilateral approach to color is coinciding with societal movements toward gender equality and fluidity, the consumer’s increased comfort with using color as a form of expression, 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 color usage.”

What do you think of Pantone’s 2016 Spring unisex-inspired palette?

Here are some great color pairings with this year’s Color of the Year Palette. Which one is your favorite?

Are you new to Pantone’s Color of the Year? Check out the years past here!