This year Pantone has not one but two colours of the year - Illuminating and Ultimate Gray.

A marriage of color conveying a message of

strength and hopefulness that is both enduring and uplifting.

The American colour company believes that the pairing of shades will help people "fortify themselves with energy, clarity and hope" in a world that's set to face increasing uncertainty.

Illuminating is "a bright and cheerful yellow sparkling with vivacity, a warming yellow shade imbued with solar power." Ultimate Gray, like the colors of pebbles on the beach, is emblematic of “solid and dependable elements which are everlasting and provide a firm foundation.” Ultimate Gray quietly assures, encouraging feelings of composure, steadiness and resilience.

The selection of two independent colors highlight how different elements come together to express a message of strength and hopefulness that is both enduring and uplifting, conveying the idea that it’s not about one color or one person, it’s about more than one.

Thinking about sprucing up your place with these optimistic colours?

Here are some of our favourites...