Pantone Names Living Coral as 2019 Color of the Year

Pantone Color Institute has designated Living Coral, a pink-orange hue with a golden undertone, as the Color of the Year for 2019. The selection process involves biannual meetings of international experts analyzing trends from entertainment, film, art, fashion, design, travel, new technologies, social media, and sports events. Living Coral is described as a response to the intrusion of digital technology and social media, offering authenticity, connection, and optimism. The name 'Living' intentionally contrasts with the endangered state of actual coral reefs. Fashion designers have already incorporated the color into spring 2019 collections: Marc Jacobs featured red-coral looks and feathered dresses; Miuccia Prada paired a coral blouse with a futuristic hairband; Joseph Altuzarra created coral dresses adorned with shells; Sacai used it in a pleated top. Nike quickly released a sneaker in the shade, and Apple produced matching iPhone cases. Pantone Color Institute, acquired by X-Rite in 2007 for $180 million, holds a near-monopoly in color identification for graphic use and advises fashion and other industries on seasonal trends. Since 2000, the Color of the Year announcement has influenced designers in apparel, home decor, industrial design, packaging, and graphic design.