Pantone 2016 Smokey Eye
Even though it’s still 2015 the fashion and beauty world is abuzz with the Pantone 2016 color(s)! Yes- that’s right, 2016 is the first time they have announced 2 colors. Opening up a world of endless possibilities. In honor of this pairing we created a gorgeous, inspired smokey eye using the Bobbi Brown Holiday Palette. Exclusive at Sephora this year.
Check out our video tutorial and the post that details our newest collaboration here. Continue reading to find out why Pantone chose this combo and what it means…
ROSE QUARTZ & SERENITY
PANTONE 13-1520 & PANTONE 15-3919
We wanted to find out why these colors were chosen so we went straight to the source. Directly from Pantone, they say:
A softer take on color for 2016: For the first time, the blending of two shades – Rose Quartz and Serenity are chosen as the PANTONE Color of the Year
As consumers seek mindfulness and well-being as an antidote to modern day stresses, welcoming colors that psychologically fulfill our yearning for reassurance and security are becoming more prominent. Joined together, Rose Quartz and Serenity demonstrate an inherent balance between a warmer embracing rose tone and the cooler tranquil blue, reflecting connection and wellness as well as a soothing sense of order and peace.
The prevalent combination of Rose Quartz and Serenity also challenges traditional perceptions of color association.
In many parts of the world we are experiencing a gender blur as it relates to fashion, which has in turn impacted color trends throughout all other areas of design. This more unilateral approach to color is coinciding with societal movements toward gender equality and fluidity, the consumer’s increased comfort with using color as a form of expression, a generation that has less concern about being typecast or judged and an open exchange of digital information that has opened our eyes to different approaches to color usage.
WHAT IS THE PANTONE COLOR OF THE YEAR?
A symbolic color selection; a color snapshot of what we see taking place in our culture that serves as an expression of a mood and an attitude.
For the first time Pantone introduces two shades. Rose Quartz and Serenity as the PANTONE Color of the Year 2016. Rose Quartz is a persuasive yet gentle tone that conveys compassion and a sense of composure. Serenity is weightless and airy, like the expanse of the blue sky above us, bringing feelings of respite and relaxation even in turbulent times.
ROSE QUARTZ & SERENITY COLOR PAIRINGS
Whether in soft or hard surface material, the pairing of Rose Quartz and Serenity brings calm and relaxation. Appealing in all finishes, matte, metallic and glossy, the engaging combo joins easily with other mid-tones including greens and purples, rich browns, and all shades of yellow and pink. Add in silver or hot brights for more splash and sparkle.
What a great message and motto to set out on this new year. When I look around at the world today it seems we could definitely use some serenity. Maybe this is using the law of attraction to bring more of this into our lives, as the US presidential campaign continues to heat up this year I can’t imagine serenity is going to be the frame of mind for many. On the other hand, it is definitely encouraging to see so many people come together and standup to injustices and for the good of others. Either way, we are so excited for 2016! We have a lot of goals both for our blog, careers, and personally. What are your goals? Do you love the colors? Yay or nay?
XOXO- M&D
For more from Pantone, check them out here!





Gorgeous look!
Glad you enjoyed it !!
The colors are way different than they have been the last handful of years. But I kind of dig it!
That’s exactly how we feel too!
I love the colors they chose this year and the look you created is absolutely beautiful!
Shannon
Clothes & Quotes
I love the 2016 colors, they go so great together. And your tutorial is awesome. I’m horrible with new makeup techniques and you make it easy to follow. Plus your skills are on point! Thanks for helping!
Cianna / La Mode365 says
Beautiful look! I love it! - Cianna (LaMode365.com)
Yay glad you like it!!
I love these colors! I feel like so many combinations would work and really let you maximize options!
~Alana Robin
http://sophisticationandsparkles.com/
Exactly we absolutely love this palette!!!
Beautiful! I love all the color options! I have yet to master a smokey eye… 😉
Practice makes perfect for sure!!!!! All about the blend! Xo
Is this the first year that they have picked two colors?
Yes!! So exciting!!
Great tutorial! Love this color combo, too - a perfect fall look 😀