The Complete Guide to Every Pantone Color of the Year—and How to Include Them in Your Wedding

Mocha Mousse IS the moment.

Pantone color of the year 2025 color palette guide

Photos: Samm Blake Photography, Darin Images, Rebecca Yale Photography, Pantone, Stetten Wilson,Design: Tiana Crispino

Updated Dec 05, 2024

When it comes to choosing the kind of wedding you want, color plays a huge role in impacting the wedding vibe. Thankfully, the Pantone Color of the Year is a great way to stay on top of wedding color trends. So, what is the Pantone Color of the Year? The Pantone Color Institute, which gets its name from the combination of "Pan" (for all) and "Tone" (for color), established this color trend forecasting initiative at the turn of the millennium. The history of the Pantone Color of the Year dates back to 2000 when The Pantone Color Institute dubbed Cerulean the inaugural color of the year (aka COTY).

Discover Your Perfect Wedding Vibe and Color Palette

That's great and all, but what do these color forecasts have to do with weddings and why are they important? In short, Pantone brings standardization to the world of color through their established Pantone Matching System (PMS). After all, it isn't just gray that comes in 50 shades. When you're telling a wedding florist you want blue, there's a chance they'll pull out a Pantone Color Guide, made up of PMS color chips, so everyone is on the same page and can align on a specific color. Beyond communicating your wedding colors with vendors, you can even use Pantone's colors to better articulate to bridesmaids what shade of blush you want them to wear or to settle on the perfect ivory bath towels for your wedding registry. In short, Pantone colors, and the Pantone Color of the Year, are a great resource to aid in picking your wedding color palette as part of the wedding planning journey. Take a look at the complete list of every Pantone Color of the Year since 2000.

Complete List of Pantone Colors of the Year: 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | 2016 | 2015 | 2014 | 2013 | 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000

Pantone Color of the Year 2025

It's official: The 2025 Pantone Color of the Year is Mocha Mousse 17-1230. The color is a decadent warm-and-cozy chocolatey brown that works with a variety of wedding styles. Want wedding guests to feel like they've been enveloped by a warm hug as soon as they arrive at your wedding? Mocha Mousse is just the color to accomplish that vibe. According to the Pantone Color Institute, their pick for color of the year is "a mellow brown infused with a sensorial and comforting warmth."

If you're worried that neutral wedding colors can't be the star of the show, think again. Mocha Mousse is gentle, but it is still a captivating color that would look beautiful as an anchor to your wedding color palette. Wondering what other colors go with Pantone Color of the Year 2025 Mocha Mousse? Dusty blue, forest green, sage green, copper and coral would each look stunning alongside the subtle brown. Additionally, other shades of brown, ranging from espresso to caramel and even light beige work nicely as accents to Mocha Mousse. And guess what? Because Mocha Mousse is a lighter shade of brown, with almost taupe-like qualities to it, the color works in any season.

When it comes to practical tips on how to include the 2025 Pantone Color of the Year in your wedding, Deliece Knights-Barnett, founder and CEO of Dhalia Events, suggests using the color to enhance reception tablescapes. She notes that couples can include Mocha Mousse in "their table setting design with lightly tinted glassware or goblets in Mocha Mousse. Adding a runner or napkin in the color of the year is an easy alternative." Knights-Barnett also encourages couples to lean into texture since the mousse inspiration from Pantone lends itself to multidimensional color interpretations. "Couples can get creative and play with the textures of these items. Use suede or velvet on napkins or tablecloths (or even the handles of flatware) to add some visual and tactile dimension to the use of the color of the year."

PMS Code: 17-1230
Hex Code: #A47864
RGB Code: 164, 120, 100
CMYK: 0%, 27%, 39%, 36%

Pantone Color of the Year 2024

The Pantone Color of the Year in 2024 was Peach Fuzz. The warm color is somewhere between pink and orange and emanates feelings of tenderness. Notably, the 2024 Pantone Color of the Year marks the 25th anniversary of these color forecasts helping couples picking their wedding color palette. If you want to give this velvety color a spot on your wedding vision board it could be included in everything from wedding party attire to stationery and even flower arrangements.

So what are the specs of this color? Pantone's colors are proprietary so only their Pantone Matching System (PMS) number is official. However, for those more familiar with hex, RGB and CMYK color codes, we've included approximations of those as well.

PMS Code: 13-1023
Hex Code: #FFBE98
RGB Code: 225, 190, 152
CMYK: 0%, 25%, 40%, 0%

Pantone Color of the Year 2023

The Pantone Color of the Year in 2023 was Viva Magenta. This color is a nuanced balanced of red and pink that creates a powerful, electrifying shade of magenta. What's not to love about magenta wedding colors? After all, the 2023 Pantone Color of the Year is said to connote optimism, strength, joy and empowerment.

PMS Code: 18-1750
Hex Code: #BE3455
RGB Code: 190, 52, 85
CMYK: 0%, 73%, 67%, 25%

Pantone Color of the Year 2022

The Pantone Color of the Year in 2022 was Veri Peri. This color is an energetic shade of periwinkle blue with subtle red undertones that create a dusty purple effect. Of note, this is the first time in the history of Pantone Color of the Year that the Pantone Color Institute created a brand-new color for the honor. They explained that this new color's "courageous presence encourages personal inventiveness and creativity."

PMS Code: 17-3938
Hex Code: #6667AB
RGB Code: 102, 103, 171
CMYK: 40%, 40%, 0%, 33%

Pantone Color of the Year 2021

The Pantone Colors of the Year in 2021 were Illuminating and Ultimate Gray. For the second time ever, the Pantone Color of the Year was a joint COTY with a cheerful yellow paired with a versatile gray. The Pantone Color Institute said that this duo is "a marriage of color conveying a message of strength and hopefulness that is both enduring and uplifting."

For Illuminating:

PMS Code: 13-0647
Hex Code: #F5DF4D
RGB Code: 245, 223, 76
CMYK: 0%, 9%, 69%, 4%

For Ultimate Gray:

PMS Code: 17-5104
Hex Code: #939597
RGB Code: 146, 149, 150
CMYK: 3%, 1%, 0%, 41%

Pantone Color of the Year 2020

The Pantone Color of the Year in 2020 was Classic Blue. The 2020 Pantone Color of the Year was inspired by the sky at dusk and evokes a vastness oft associated with the galaxies. The Pantone Color Institute stated that this shade was chosen to "highlight our desire for a dependable and stable foundation on which to build as we cross the threshold into a new era."

PMS Code: 19-4052
Hex Code: #0F4C81
RGB Code: 15, 76, 129
CMYK: 100%, 76%, 25%, 0%

Pantone Color of the Year 2019

The Pantone Color of the Year in 2019 was Living Coral. The vivacious 2019 Pantone Color of the Year is energizing and warm.

PMS Code: 16-1546
Hex Code: $FF6F61
RGB Code: 255, 111, 97
CMYK: 0%, 65%, 54%, 0%

Pantone Color of the Year 2018

The Pantone Color of the Year in 2018 was Ultra Violet. This intense purple color is described as provocative, original and full of flair. The 2018 Pantone Color of the Year is a great option for edgy couples who want their wedding to be unique and spunky.

PMS Code: 18-3838
Hex Code: #5F4B8B
RGB Code: 95, 75, 139
CMYK: 71%, 73%, 7%, 8%

Pantone Color of the Year 2017

The Pantone Color of the Year in 2017 was Greenery. I know what you thinking thinking…Greenery? For weddings? …Groundbreaking. But hear me out, this isn't any ole' shade of green. The 2017 Pantone Color of the Year is a vivacious yellow-green that's reminiscent of chartreuse and perfect for couples who want a perky, spirited shade of green in their wedding color palette.

PMS Code: 17-2031
Hex Code: #88B04B
RGB Code: 136, 176, 75
CMYK: 51%, 9%, 88%, 0%

Pantone Color of the Year 2016

The Pantone Color of the Year in 2016 was a pairing of Rose Quartz and Serenity. 2016 was the first time ever that Pantone chose a color duo and named a joint COTY. The Pantone Color Institute chose joint colors of the year because, simply put, the two pair together harmoniously and complement each other. Both colors are soft and inviting; they emanate feelings of gentleness, weightlessness and contentment.

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For Rose Quartz:

PMS Code: 13-1520
Hex Code: #F7CAC9
RGB Code: 247, 202, 201
CMYK: 0%, 24%, 15%, 0%

For Serenity:

PMS Code: 1503919
Hex Code: 92A8D1
RGB Code: 146, 168, 209
CYMK: 42%, 24%, 3%, 0%

Pantone Color of the Year 2015

The Pantone Color of the Year in 2015 was Marsala. The robust color is a rich blend of brown and wine that results in a chocolatey burgundy. The color is said to be mindful and contemplative. This color lends itself nicely to both rustic weddings and boho weddings.

PMS Code: 18-1438
Hex Code: #955251
RGB Code: 150, 79, 76
CMYK: 25%, 77%, 64%, 11%

Pantone Color of the Year 2014

The Pantone Color of the Year in 2014 was Radiant Orchid. Real talk? I remember when this color was announced I was uncertain about the selection. Purple is a tricky color to pull off, but the more I get to know the 2014 Pantone Color of the Year, the more I like it. The color has been described as a fusion of fuchsia, purple and pink. For couples who like the idea of purple as a wedding color, but don't want it to feel dated or dowdy, this fresh take is worth considering.

PMS Code: 18-3224
Hex Code: #B565A7
RGB Code: 177, 99, 163
CMYK: 33%, 72%, 0%, 0%

Pantone Color of the Year 2013

The Pantone Color of the Year in 2013 was Emerald. Jewel tones have long been popular with weddings so why not consider the 2013 Pantone Color of the Year for your celebration? The color is rich and magnificent; it evokes feelings of grandeur and opulence.

PMS Code: 17-5641
Hex Code: #009B77
RGB Code: 0, 152, 116
CMYK: 86%, 8%, 57%, 0%

Pantone Color of the Year 2012

The Pantone Color of the Year in 2012 was Tangerine Tango. This color is a vivacious shade of red that emanates passion and energy, much like the dance it's named after. Bring the heat to your wedding by infusing this color throughout—from bridesmaid dresses to centerpieces and even signage.

PMS Code: 17-1463
Hex Code: #DD4124
RGB Code: 221, 65, 36
CMYK: 0%, 82%, 80%, 0%

Pantone Color of the Year 2011

The Pantone Color of the Year in 2011 was Honeysuckle. And can I be honest with you? There is a very real chance that the 2011 Pantone Color of the Year is my favorite one they've ever selected in the history of the list. I've always been a fan of bright shades of pink and this cheerful shade reminds me of a scoop of raspberry gelato on a warm summer's day.

PMS Code: 18-2120
Hex Code: D85A7B
RGB Code: 203, 101, 134
CMYK: 0%, 86%, 16%, 0%

Pantone Color of the Year 2010

The Pantone Color of the Year in 2010 was Turquoise. I've always been a fan of serene colors that incorporate both green and blue so it's safe to say that I absolutely loved the 2010 Pantone Color of the Year. This color evokes feelings of a soothing, comforting escape to tropical waters and brings a sense of wellbeing and restoration.

PMS Code: 15-5519
Hex Code: #45B5AA
RGB Code: 69, 181, 170
CMYK: 62%, 0%, 6%, 29%

Pantone Color of the Year 2009

The Pantone Color of the Year in 2009 was Mimosa. The warm yellow color chosen as 2009 Pantone Color of the Year evokes optimism, hope and reassurance. Yellow has made an appearance a few times in the history of Pantone Color of the Year but the 2009 shade is slightly richer than some of its counterparts on the list.

PMS Code: 14-0848
Hex Code: #F0C05A
RGB Code: 240, 192, 91
CMYK: 0%, 20%, 62%, 6%

Pantone Color of the Year 2008

The Pantone Color of the Year in 2008 was Blue Iris. The 2008 Pantone Color of the Year has been described as stable and calming (from its blue notes) while also being mystical and complex (from its purple notes). Ways to use this Pantone color in a wedding include wedding party attire, uplighting, specialty linens and floral arrangements.

PMS Code: 18-3943
Hex Code: #5A5B9F
RGB Code: 90, 90, 158
CMYK: 43%, 43%, 0%, 38%

Pantone Color of the Year 2007

The Pantone Color of the Year in 2007 was Chili Pepper. This bold, deep color is as spicy as its name and connotes confidence and attitude. The 2007 Pantone Color of the Year is a deeper red than some of the other shades of red that have been selected in the history of Pantone Color of the Year. As such, it is an especially strong option for couples looking for fall wedding colors and winter wedding colors.

PMS Code: 19-1557
Hex Code: #9B1B30
RGB Code: 156, 26, 48
CMYK: 0%, 83%, 69%, 39%

Pantone Color of the Year 2006

The Pantone Color of the Year in 2006 was Sand Dollar. This nature-inspired shade is reminiscent of the desert and sandy beaches and evokes feelings of relaxation to soothe stressed nerves. The 2006 Pantone Color of the Year would look great both as a wedding color palette accent or as the star of the show. Use it on everything from stationery to wedding party attire and even specialty rentals, like chairs and bar fronts.

PMS Code: 13-1106
Hex Code: #DECDBE
RGB Code: 222, 204, 191
CMYK: 0%, 8%, 14%, 13%

Pantone Color of the Year 2005

The Pantone Color of the Year in 2005 was Blue Turquoise. The 2005 Pantone Color of the Year is inspired by the sea and brings feelings of calm, reassurance and gentleness. Tie the knot at a waterfront wedding venue and the ocean will do all the hard work of bringing this color to your wedding.

PMS Code: 15-5217
Hex Code: #53B0AE
RGB Code: 83, 176, 174
CMYK: 53%, 0%, 1%, 31%

Pantone Color of the Year 2004

The Pantone Color of the Year in 2004 was Tigerlily. This rejuvenating shade of red contains subtle yellow notes and evokes brightness and passion. Fans of the 2004 Pantone Color of the Year could include it in their weddings in numerous ways, from stationery and signage to fashion and more.

PMS Code: 17-1456
Hex Code: #E2583E
RGB Code: 227, 89, 61
CMYK: 0%, 61%, 73%, 11%

Pantone Color of the Year 2003

The Pantone Color of the Year in 2003 was Aqua Sky. This serene blue-green color evokes a sense of calmness. Despite being over 20 years old, the 2003 Pantone Color of the Year is a timeless choice for weddings, especially beach destination weddings.

PMS Code: 14-4811
Hex Code: #7bc4c4
RGB Code: 124, 196, 196
CMYK: 37%, 0%, 0%, 23%

Pantone Color of the Year 2002

The Pantone Color of the Year in 2002 was True Red. This vivid shade of red is perfect for weddings because of its association with love and passion. Whether you incorporate it through red roses or even dainty red ribbon bows incorporated into favors.

PMS Code: 19-1664
Hex Code: #c74375
RGB Code: 199, 67, 117
CMYK: 0%, 66%, 41%, 22%

Pantone Color of the Year 2001

The Pantone Color of the Year in 2001 was Fuchsia Rose. This color is described as passionate, feminine, exciting, and warm. Fans of the 2001 Pantone Color of the Year could incorporate it into their wedding through flowers or even a bold lip stick color. I, for one, love the idea of serving a hibiscus margarita as a signature cocktail in honor of this member of the Pantone Color of the Year list.

PMS Code: 17-2031
Hex Code: C74375
RGB Code: 199, 68, 116
CMYK: 0%, 66%, 41%, 22%

Pantone Color of the Year 2000

The Pantone Color of the Year in 2000 was Cerulean, the first-ever Color of the Year from Pantone. A few years later, the color iconically stole the show in The Devil Wears Prada. Miranda Priestly's famous monologue about a cerulean sweater in the 2006 film The Devil Wears Prada offers a comical, but valid, peek into the vast power of color trends and why systems like Pantone matter. Meryl Streep's character iconically says to her intern, played by Anne Hathaway, "You… go to your closet, and you select… I don't know, that lumpy blue sweater, for instance, because you're trying to tell the world that you take yourself too seriously to care about what you put on your back, but what you don't know is that that sweater is not just blue, it's not turquoise, it's not lapis, it's actually cerulean. You're also blithely unaware of the fact that, in 2002, Oscar de la Renta did a collection of cerulean gowns, and then I think it was Yves Saint Laurent, wasn't it?… who showed cerulean military jackets. I think we need a jacket here. And then cerulean quickly showed up in the collections of eight different designers. Then it filtered down through the department stores and then trickled on down into some tragic casual corner where you, no doubt, fished it out of some clearance bin. However, that blue represents millions of dollars of countless jobs, and it's sort of comical how you think that you've made a choice that exempts you from the fashion industry when, in fact, you're wearing a sweater that was selected for you by the people in this room… from a pile of 'stuff.'" Mic' drop.