Pantone Unveils 2010 Color of the Year

Pantone LLC, an X-Rite company, announced PANTONE 15-5519, turquoise, an inviting, luminous hue, as the color of the year for 2010. Combining the serene qualities of blue and the invigorating aspects of green, turquoise evokes thoughts of soothing, tropical waters and a languorous escape from the everyday troubles of the world.

“In many cultures, turquoise occupies a very special position in the world of color,” explained Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute. “It is believed to be a protective talisman, a color of deep compassion and healing, and a color of faith and truth, inspired by water and sky. Through years of color word-association studies, we also find that turquoise represents an escape to many—taking them to a tropical paradise that is pleasant and inviting, even if only a fantasy.”

Turquoise is a color most people respond to positively. It is universally flattering, has appeal for men and women, and translates easily to fashion and interiors. With both warm and cool undertones, turquoise pairs nicely with any other color in the spectrum. Turquoise adds a splash of excitement to neutrals and browns, complements reds and pinks, creates a classic maritime look with deep blues, livens up other greens, and is trend-setting with yellow-greens.

In fashion, turquoise makes a statement that can look elegant and dressy in fine silk and gemstones, or casual and fun in cotton and athletic apparel. Because of its versatility, turquoise is a great accent color in jewelry, purses, shoes, hair accessories and ties, shirts and sportswear for men.

Additionally, turquoise is one of 3,000 colors available in Pantone’s line of eco-friendly paint. PANTONE Paints combine the accuracy of PANTONE Colors with high-performance Dutch paints. Perfect for a powder room or bedroom, turquoise is an evocative, spa-like hue that adds an undertone of warmth and excitement to any cool space. In the kitchen, turquoise adds a unique flare to tabletop and appliances.