10 Reasons to Love “Living Coral” – Pantone’s 2019 Colour of the Year

There have been some mixed reactions to Pantone’s 2019 Colour of the Year ‘ Living Coral”, and that’s not surprising, surveys have shown that orange is one of the most misunderstood colours. While many love it, some think it’s too loud and overwhelming, others – myself included, have had run ins with orange when we were younger (a whole other story) and some think it’s too girly with the pink undertone. But there is more to Living Coral than being trendy, when you take a closer look into the qualities and associations of this colour you will find there are lots of reasons to love it.

1. It Radiates Optimism

Living Coral is is an orange with a pinky, gold undertone. In colour therapy orange vibrations are said to give freedom to thoughts and feelings, it’s a good motivator and encourages creativity, conversation and laughter. With so much negativity surrounding us in the news and on social media, it’s a good colour to introduce when you are feeling down as it encourages you to not take things too seriously. Orange helps you experience life with more optimism and a sense of fun.

2. Puts a Spotlight on Coral Reefs

If there is one trend we should all be following it’s environmental awareness. If Pantone is willing to shine a light on this, I am all in. The world’s coral reefs are home to 25% of all marine life, sadly climate change, pollution and over fishing are having devastating consequences on them. Without being negative, Living Coral highlights the beauty and plight of the coral reefs. There are some great documentaries on this. CNN has one at the moment called ” Race to save the Reef” and another eye-opener is “Chasing Coral” on Netflix

3. Makes a Beautiful Feature Wall

For interiors I would recommend using the Pantone colour for inspiration, but going a tint or two lighter. It not only looks beautiful, but creates a cozy, comforting and optimistic space to connect with family and friends.

4. Flatters all Skin Tones

The peachy undertones of Living Colour gives a healthy glow to all skin types. A great colour to have in the bathroom as it will give you a flattering glow and an energy boost as you start your day.

5. It’s Fashionable 

Coral shades were all over the Spring 2019 runway shows, including Prada, Temperly and Brandon Maxwell.

It’s not a new colour on the catwalk, who can forget Steve McQueen’s Spring Summer 2012 look.

6. Works Well with Other Colours

Living coral works beautifully with it’s complementary colour blue – its gorgeous with navy, turquoise, teal or powder blue. It works well with other earth tones like brown and beige and goes perfectly with green, pink and metallics, the possibilities are endless.

7. Perfect for Dining Areas

Shades of orange like Living Coral, but also peach and terracotta are perfect for kitchens and dining rooms. They are said to increase the appetite and aid digestion. As stated previously, they also encourage conversation and look beautiful by candlelight.

8. Looks Fab on Furniture

I just love this chest of drawers by Kindle furniture from the Dorothy Draper Collection. It creates a contemporary yet nostalgic feel, that makes you feel happy.

9. It’s Creative

Orange is a colour often favoured by creative people, it pushes you out of your comfort zone. Fancy this Hollywood Regency style ostrich feather lamp anyone?

10. Adds Life to a Colour Scheme

I saw this image on instagram a few weeks before Pantone launched Living Colour. I loved it as the orange gives this scheme life and energy and that sums up Living Coral for me.

Wishing you a fantastic 2019 full of colourful surprises.