Pantone reveals Living Coral as the colour of the year 2019

By Sarah Parsons | Published: 6-Dec-2018

The flattering, orange hue is said to reflect consumers escape from social media and technology

This year brands had fun with Ultra Violet, while 2017 Pantone brought the world Greenery, but this year we are predicted to find inspiration from tropical waters.

Trend forecasters at Pantone have revealed “life-affirming” Living Coral as the colour of the year 2019.

The warm, orangey-pink shade is said to be a reaction to the “onslaught” of digital technology and social media, as consumers attempt to seek more authentic and intimate experiences.

“Colour is an equalising lens through which we experience our natural and digital reality and this is particularly true for Living Coral,” said Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute.

“With consumers craving human interaction and social connection, the humanising and heartening qualities displayed by the convivial Pantone Living Coral hit a responsive chord.”



To find the colour, according to The New York Times, Pantone sends ten people to travel the globe to find inspiration in food, cars, cosmetics, clothes and housewares.

In celebration of the colour of the year announcement, Butter London – Pantone’s official beauty partner – have released a Living Coral collection. The range includes three nail polish shades, a lip gloss and blush stick.

Meanwhile, Huda Beauty is promoting its Coral Obsession’s Palette, filled with nine nature-inspired eyeshadow shades.

Cerulean Blue was Pantone’s first annual shade prediction in 2000 and in 2015 it named two shades for the first time ever – Serenity and Rose Quartz.


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