Pantone’s Color of the Year Turns Heads

By Jo King | Appropriated Press

SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA — In some of the most anticipated news of the season, Pantone unveiled Marsala, their Color of the Year to a great deal of fanfare this week. While past Colors of the Year have often been bright, bold and vibrant, this year’s color dials down the flair, but brings instead a sophistication that managed to ignite a social media blaze. Eliciting reactions from all corners of the web, Marsala, Pantone 18-1438, has seen praise from names ranging from actor Rob Lowe,


to Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper,

and even to design superstar, Martha Stewart.


Largely deemed a successful reception by critics, reactions to the color largely reflected the sentiments embodied in the Marsala mood boards created by the Pantone Color institute.


“A tasteful hue” — The Pantone Color Institute

“Nurturing and fulfilling,” The Pantone Color Institute has recommended Marsala as “a natural fit for the kitchen and dining room – making it ideal for tabletop, small appliances and linens throughout the home.” However, due the the color’s stirring and subtly provocative inclinations, the Institute warns against its use in schools, waiting rooms and government buildings.

Roy G. Biv  also contributed to this report.