Expressions in color

Growing up, I was somewhat aware, mostly by chance listening to chic ladies, that there was such an annual choice of a “Color of the Year.” Often discovered through word of mouth, I must confess I did not know the shade of magenta until it became in vogue — thanks to its proclamation as color of the year.

But since then, so many women, and perhaps even men, eagerly await such an announcement as it serves as a guideline for entertainment and film, art and fashion, travel and tourism, technologies and lifestyles in general.

The Pantone Color Institute, since the turn of the century, has taken up the mantle to be a credible source of the Color of the Year, which is researched and deliberated through extensive discussions between experts and professionals from around the world.

Color “has always been an integral part of how a culture expresses the attitudes and emotions of the times,” according to Pantone. And this rings true in the year of 2021, as Ultimate Gray and Illuminating have been selected as the Color of the Year. Yes, there can be two. The steady and stern solid backdrop of gray serves as the ideal contrast to the brightness of Illuminating, which comes in a shade of yellow — highlighting strength and hopefulness, enduring and uplifting for the future.

The executive director of the Pantone Color Institute Leatrice Eiseman best explains it in her very own words. “The union of an enduring Ultimate Gray 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 color combination that gives us resilience and hope,” she reflected.

Here are some Cebuana ladies in their very own Ultimate Gray and Illuminating gowns and dresses.