The organisation said these two independent colours “come together to create an aspirational colour pairing, conjoining deeper feelings of thoughtfulness with the optimistic promise of a sunshine filled day”.
Illuminating was described by Pantone as “a bright and cheerful yellow sparkling with vivacity, a warming yellow shade imbued with solar power”.
Ultimate Grey, meanwhile, “is emblematic of solid and dependable elements which are everlasting and provide a firm foundation”. It said this colour “quietly assures, encouraging feelings of composure, steadiness and resilience”.
“The selection of two independent colours highlight how different elements come together to express a message of strength and hopefulness that is both enduring and uplifting, conveying the idea that it’s not about one colour or one person, it’s about more than one,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Colour Institute.
“The union of an enduring Ultimate Grey with the vibrant yellow Illuminating expresses a message of positivity supported by fortitude.
“Practical and rock solid but at the same time warming and optimistic, this is a colour combination that gives us resilience and hope. We need to feel encouraged and uplifted; this is essential to the human spirit.”
This year marks the first time since 2016 that Pantone has chosen two colours of the year instead of the usual one.
Read more about colour trends in the recent Printweek briefing on the subject.
Recent Pantone colours of the year
2020 Classic Blue (Pantone 19-4052) A timeless and enduring hue elegant in its simplicity
2019 Living Coral (Pantone 16-1546) An animating and life-affirming coral hue with a golden undertone
2018 Ultra Violet (Pantone 18-3838) dramatically provocative and thoughtful purple shade
2017 Greenery (Pantone 15-0343) A refreshing and revitalising shade
2016 Rose Quartz (Pantone 13-1520) and Serenity (Pantone 15-3919) A blending of two shades was chosen for the first time
2015 Marsala (Pantone 18-1438) A naturally robust and earthy wine red
2014 Radiant Orchid (Pantone 18-3224) An expressive, creative and embracing purple
2013 Emerald (Pantone 17-5641) A colour of elegance and beauty, most often associated with gemstones
2012 Tangerine Tango (Pantone 17-1463) Reminiscent of the radiant shadings of a sunset
2011 Honeysuckle (Pantone 18-2120) A dynamic reddish pink
