Pantone announced Wednesday that, for the first time, the new Color of the Year is a blend of two shades—Rose Quartz and Serenity. Pantone says the colors 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.

Sherry Morris, marketing director for gift company Carpentree, commented on Pantone's unique choice.

“The tone of blue that Pantone calls ‘Serenity’ is a calming, cool color,” Morris said. “Rose quartz is a warmer tone. These colors will, no doubt, translate well into fashion. Blue is also a popular decor color, and this gentler tone will be welcomed as both a primary and an accent color. Mixing in tones of pink into decor equates to a soft, spa-like feel that some people will like, but others will think of as only appropriate for a baby's or young child's room. I think it is safe to observe that the modern world is ready to have some calming color experiences, but I am not sure how ready most people are to have these colors working together in the same room.”

Pantone also said that pairing Rose Quartz and Serenity challenges traditional perceptions of color association, specifically when it comes to gender binaries. However, Morris said gender issues do not necessarily define the Pantone Color of the Year.

“Pantone's comment that choosing serene blue and rose quartz are a move toward 'gender fluidity' may make sense to those who invent color marketing concepts, but that doesn't mean the rest of us have to interpret the symbolism in the same light ... ,” Morris said. “Color is in the eye of the beholder. The emotions evoked are unique and personal. But I think that for most people in our industry and those who buy our products, these won't be perceived as a gender juxtaposition. They will simply be two familiar colors that will have a soft, fresh vibe for a variety of decor and gifts that will include—but will perhaps not be limited to—the baby's room.”

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