On December 9,Pantone announced its colours of the year for 2021: PANTONE 17-5104 Ultimate Grey and PANTONE 13-0647 Illuminating. Selecting two colours for only the second time in 22 years, Pantone described the chosen yellow and grey as independent but complementary, representing a theme of unity and mutual support. Whereas PANTONE 13-0647 Illuminating is bright and vivacious, PANTONE 17-5104 Ultimate Grey is firm and dependable, the marriage of which represents strength, optimism, and fortitude following a markedly challenging year.

The two independent but complementary colours are meant to sum up our conflicting moods during thepandemic and highlight how different elements come together to support one another, according to 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 the colour combination that gives us resilience and hope. We need to feel encouraged and uplifted; this is essential to the human spirit,” she said in a statement. 

If you’re looking for some styling inspirations for the new Pantone colour palette to stay one step ahead of the curve, we’ve got you covered:

Luxury folding gift boxes

What better way to showcase your use of colour trends than by boxes? Don’t ever underestimate the role good packaging design plays in the customer experience. Sure, customers are eager to see what’s inside but unboxing is not only a popular social media trend but also makes the experience so much better.

Silver Luxury Gift Boxes
Our Silver boxes are becoming as popular as white for their neutral yet contemporary feel with a luxurious depth of colour. These boxes are part of our metal elements collection and can be used in a variety of ways.

Naked Grey Luxury Gift Boxes
Naked Grey® Gift Boxes have a natural, slightly textured matt grey flecked finish and are the perfect retail product packaging solution with an urban industrial vibe. Pair this with any yellow ribbon and you’ve got the literal definition of Pantone’s colours of the year!

Decorative ribbons and closures

Want to include Pantone’s 2021 colours in your packaging without making a big commitment? The best way to do this is through the use of ribbons or closures. Accessories allow for brands to express their creativity and personalisation whilst still remaining somewhat neutral to their customers needs. We have an extensive range of ribbons and closures which are designed to fit our slot gift boxes. Here are some of the ribbons we suggest:

Lemon Yellow Grosgrain Ribbon
High-quality Lemon Yellow grosgrain ribbon to fit all gift boxes our range ofslot gift boxes with changeable ribbon.A bright, vibrant and very pretty yellow. Ideal for cupcake bakery boxes or unisex baby gift hampers.

Pineapple Grosgrain Ribbon
Pineapple high-quality grosgrain ribbon to fit all gift boxes in our range ofslot gift boxes with changeable ribbon.

Silver Grey Grosgrain Ribbon
High quality Silver Grey grosgrain ribbon to fit our range ofslot gift boxes with changeable ribbon.A classic and universal silver pastel grey.

Grey Opal Smooth Dome Box Closure
Ideal gift box or keepsake box accessory that works very nicely with all our luxuryslot gift boxes with changeable ribbon but looks especially good with Silver.

Yellow Diamond Gemstone Gift Box Closure
Ideal gift box or keepsake box accessory that works very nicely with White, Silver, Pewter, Navy, Black and Bronze luxuryslot gift boxes with changeable ribbon.

Symbolising positivity and strength, Pantone’s Colours of the Year for 2021—Ultimate Grey and Illuminating—prove to be a beautiful duo when incorporated into your retail packaging. 

Nicole Hines