How to Wear and Celebrate Pantone’s Fresh New Color of the Year

Touted as “nature’s neutral,” Pantone’s Color of the Year is one that evokes optimism, rebirth and revitalization.

 “Satisfying our growing desire to rejuvenate and revitalize, Greenery symbolizes the reconnection we seek with nature, one another and a larger purpose,” says Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute.

The yellow-green hue, which embodies both warm and cool tones, complements most skin tones when done right and adds the perfect punctuation to any look. Case in point: Greenery was all over Gucci’s sought-after spring 2017 runway, and even interior designers are incorporating bright pops of the color in wallpaper, décor and furniture.

Crate & Barrel has green-tinged items ranging from cozy throws to glazed serving bowls, which all look striking when set against white or charcoal-grey furniture. The finish is clean and modern but with a distinct and deliberate pop of color that is unique yet timeless.

 When wearing the shade, it truly can be treated as a neutral. If paired with other neutrals, such as camel, white, black or grey, it feels minimal and modern. If worn in a more traditionally spring-like fashion, for example when paired with pastels or white, the color takes a much more feminine turn that is fit for a springtime celebration.

Surprisingly, the shade also translates into beauty. Nail polish is a no-brainer and OPI has the perfect rendition called “I’m Sooo Swamped!” A swipe of Greenery-inspired eyeliner also can be an unexpected addition to a beauty look and a nice departure from your more ho-hum black and brown. Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil in Freak is a gorgeous green that will provide contrast to dark eyes and enhance the color in lighter eyes. As for your lids, dust M·A·C Cosmetics’ Bowlarama eye shadow (from its limited-edition It’s a Strike Collection) in the inner corners of your eyes or along your lash lines for a vibrant wash of color that seems to make all eye colors sparkle. 

And for spring and summer weddings, Greenery feels like a natural fit for bridesmaid dresses and even as the over-arching color of the event. After all, its optimistic and positive appeal seems spot-on for the sentiment of the celebration.

Products shown, from top: Lima Alpaca Olive Green Throw Blanket, Crate & Barrel, $179.00; Jars Tourron Green Serving Bowl, Crate & Barrel, $99.95; Caprice Green 8″ Melamine Bowl, Crate & Barrel, $6.95; OPI New Orleans Collection in I’m Sooo Swamped!, Sephora, $10; Bowlarama Eye Shadow, M·A·C COSMETICS, $9.60