How to Use the 2021 Pantone Color(s) of the Year
Updated: Apr 7, 2021
If you haven't already seen it, the 2021 Pantone Color of the Year is a bright, BRIGHT yellow called Illuminating and it's been paired with a classic, Ultimate Gray counterpart. It may seem impossible to weave a bold color like this into your home but here are a few ways to use the 2021 Pantone Color of the Year.
First, some background. The color selections are meant to show us how two totally different entities can come together to support one another....sounds like something we need these days, right? The classic gray backs up this brilliant yellow tone by keeping it grounded and the yellow brings the gray up and out of it's shell with it's sunny vibrancy.
If you're looking to give Illuminating Yellow a test run in your home but you're not totally committed, throw pillows are an easy way to introduce new colors to your space without making a huge change or a big financial investment. They are easily interchangeable so when you tire of them, it's really no biggie.
Check out some of these beaut's from Target. I mean, who doesn't love a little fringe?!
You're going to want to bring in some of the gray here so the yellow doesn't become overwhelming, Go for different textures and don't be afraid to mix some pattern in there!!
Try a great throw tossed haphazardly on a side chair, sofa or at the foot of your bed to bring the sunshine in to just about any space you could dream of. Something like this is simple and should work well with lots of different color schemes.
For a bigger statement, I always love a good area rug. They help to ground all of your furniture and define a space. They add much needed warmth to any room and a good area rug could, basically, act as art for your floor.
Grab one with an amazing pattern and pops of yellow and gray. I love the texture on this, essential for any good, layered look.
Or just go for it!! This would look amazing under some gray sofas or with a neutral wall color and a gray ceiling. You don't want to fight something like this! Instead, let it shine!!
Brighten up your windows!! Window treatments can be expensive, especially if you're looking for something very specific. I'll be honest, I didn't find many pre-fab panels with a great yellow touch that I loved so...DIY! Pick up some plain white panels (MAKE SURE YOU MEASURE YOUR WINDOWS!!!) and this adorable pompom trim and get to work!!
TIP: If you're not a great sewer use fabric tape to get it done!
Lets get artsy! Artwork is another décor item that's super easy to swap out! You can keep your frames and buy new prints or you can purchase all together new framed pieces. I love the movement on these and the black or white frame really make all that yellow pop! Slip them into an existing gallery wall or place one in an entry for a warm hello every time you come home.
If new art isn't in your budget, grab a yellow frame from Amazon or Etsy and use a neutral colored print you already own for a brand new look.
If all else fails, it's amazing what a can of spry paint can do. Here's a great tutorial on spray painting frames you already own.
You could go all out and paint your walls or ceiling yellow!! I love how this paint color creates a super fun backdrop for these wood tones. The splash of color really livens up these otherwise traditional furniture pieces.
Look at how the yellow just lifts this whole space up!!
If there's such a thing as too much yellow in your world, go for an accent wall or a bold geometric design. The scalloped look here is so fun and brings just the right amount of whimsy to this child's room.
I mean...did you think we wouldn't be talking about wallpaper? Check out this tropical vibes on this baby. I love the mix of the yellow with the more neutral tones here, perfect for an entry or living room. I'd love to see any of these popped into a tray ceiling!!
With so many options, its easy to bring the 2021 Pantone Color(s) of the Year home with you if you just know where to start! Go big or go small! It's totally up to you!
Happy decorating, folks!! As always, you know where to find me!
