The 2017 Color of the Year is Greenery—this precisely reflects how poorly we all fared the previous year.

How, then, are these annual Colors of the Year selected? Pantone maintains a research team composed of color experts who travel the world gathering information that may shape future color trends. They draw inspiration from films, stage lighting, fashion, design fields, museums, artists’ works, tourist destinations, emerging lifestyles and social phenomena—or even macroeconomic conditions of the year—to identify a single hue capable of resonating globally. Color, like fashion, is deeply intertwined with our daily lives and society. ‘The term “visual camouflage” is crucial: it signifies that color and fashion trends are shaped by the spirit of the times.’ —Annabel Alton, International Color Consultant ▲ Evolution of Western women’s fashion in the 18th century ▲ Evolution of Western women’s fashion in the 20th century. As each era progresses, fashion trends continually shift—and color evolves alongside them. During periods of major societal upheaval, people gravitate toward natural hues—for instance, during Britain’s early-1970s economic depression, markets collectively shifted to calming, soothing tones such as apple green and apricot yellow. Conversely, when society is buoyed by optimism, saturated, vibrant colors become favored. ▲ Screenshot from BBC’s ‘Interior Design Rules’ When the economy collapsed again in 1987, natural tones reemerged; by the 1990s, as economic recovery took hold, color trends shifted once more. Some colors emerge as cool, reflective tones born of collective trauma—color thus serves as a barometer of shifting social psychology. Pantone’s Colors of the Year—from 2000 through 2017—effectively constitute a social-psychological chronicle of the new millennium. All Pantone-selected Colors of the Year carry positive connotations. In 2016, Pantone made history by naming *two* Colors of the Year: Serenity (a tranquil blue) and Rose Quartz (a delicate pink). Their harmonious blend evokes ‘a calm, peaceful, and reassuring feeling of order.’ Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute, noted that Serenity and Rose Quartz subtly convey the idea that no rigid boundaries exist between ‘us’ and ‘them’—blurring traditional gender associations of color. Pink is no longer exclusively feminine; blue, likewise, is no longer confined to masculinity. In 2017, Greenery was named Color of the Year—not the first green of the 21st century: Turquoise was chosen in 2010, and Emerald in 2013. The repeated selection of such natural greens reveals a consistent pattern: the preceding year brought widespread hardship. The 2008 financial crisis struck in 2009; multiple countries implemented austerity measures in 2012; and 2016 witnessed Brexit and significant political upheavals. Amid today’s turbulent global climate, people yearn for a color symbolizing hope, freedom, and vitality—one that soothes and reinvigorates.

Essential tools for directors and cinematographers during location scouting.

This DSLR produces beautiful images and supports Super 35 format shooting—enabling directors to truly visualize how scenes will appear through the lens. Exterior reference photos are captured under natural light, without any added illumination. After color correction in Photoshop, these images are shared with the director to ensure both parties are discussing the exact same visual reference. 02 Gloves You never know what conditions you’ll encounter on location—so always bring gloves. 03 Tape Measure Indispensable for physical measurements: e.g., ceiling height, room length and width. 04 Script Print scripts double-sided to reduce paper use. You can sketch simple scene diagrams directly onto the script pages—these sketches, combined with location photos, provide invaluable spatial references during discussions about blocking and staging. Since scripts often specify numerous shooting locations, diagramming each setting helps maintain clarity. 05 Light Meter To determine the appropriate film ISO (or digital sensor sensitivity) needed for a given environment, a light meter offers essential guidance. For example: What’s the ambient light level outdoors? How does it change if curtains are drawn? 06 Color Temperature Meter When encountering unusual or inconsistent lighting on location, a color temperature meter helps identify the precise hue—or color temperature—of the light source.

Sherwin-Williams Leans Into Green for Its 2027 Color of the Year

6 days ago

Sherwin-Williams announced "Celery" as its 2027 Color of the Year, selecting a herbal green shade to reflect wellness trends and appeal to homeowners seeking soothing environments.

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