Every year the Pantone Color Institute announces its color of the year, which reigns supreme for the next 365 days in the design world. This year Pantone has dubbed Marsala – named after Sicilian wine – the 2015 color of the year. Pantone is known worldwide as the standard language for color communication for designers, manufacturers, retailer and yes even you, the customer.

For over 50 years, Pantone has inspired design professionals with products and leading color technology for the expression of creativity. According to the Pantone panels of experts, “[Marsala], enriches your mind, body and soul, exuding confidence and stability.” This red-brown hue is markedly different from the 2014 color, Radiant Orchid. This year Pantone’s color palette is taking its cue from nature and incorporating cooler, softer color choice with subtle warm tones.

The internet’s reaction to the announcement yesterday has been a mixed bag. Some seem excited by the natural tones that inspire the new color collection, while others feel it is not reminiscent of earth tones so much as a dull version of colors past. Whatever the consensus, it seems that major brands (Gap, Sephora, Crate and Barrel, etc.) are already taking notice and releasing items in this unique shade. What do you think?

Pantone Universe

You don’t have to wait for your favorite store to start carrying items with Pantone’s innovative colors. Pantone Universe is a collection of lifestyle products based on fashion trends for the consumer. Still looking for the perfect gift for that impossible person? Pantone Universe is a great place to find a present that is unique and still practical.

Brighten up your Christmas tree with a Pantone Mimosa ornament, while supplies last. Put together a mug set of 2014’s best Pantone colors. Take note of upcoming trends in style in one of three vibrant notebooks. Whatever your everyday use of color inspiration, Pantone Universe has something to get your creativity jumpstarted. Get your hands on colors which express the mood of a generation.