Each year, Pantone’s Color of the Year is a symbolic reflection of the global zeitgeist, drawn from a meticulous analysis of fashion, design, and cultural trends. For 2024, Pantone has chosen “Peach Fuzz,” a light, fruity hue symbolizing peace and serenity. This decision, rooted in a desire for nurturing and tactile experiences amid turbulent times, marks a significant moment in colour psychology and cultural sentiment.
Leatrice Eisman, a colour specialist at Pantone, explained the choice of Peach Fuzz for 2024: “We’re going through a lot of turmoil in our lives, and we need a colour that’s nurturing,” she said during a video call with CNN. Eisman highlighted the tactile nature of this warm and cozy shade, emphasizing its significance in fostering connections and welcoming environments.
The peach fuzz tone has been featured in spring-summer 2024 fashion runways, especially in Milan. Esteemed Italian fashion houses like Gucci, Jil Sander, and Sportmax have incorporated it into their collections. Celebrities have also embraced the shade, with Hilary Duff donning a peach-hued gown at the Oscars Vanity Fair Afterparty and Uma Thurman wearing a similar coloured Prada dress at the Women Making History Awards.
Pantone’s colour selection process is cumulative, drawing on past and present trends. Eisman recalled the impact of Beyoncé’s peach attire at the 2016 Met Gala, a pivotal moment for Pantone’s team. This retrospective approach highlights specific colours’ enduring relevance and evolution over time.
The appeal of Peach Fuzz transcends gender boundaries, growing in popularity among both women and men. Eisman noted this shift, emphasizing the colour’s nostalgic yet modern appeal. Examples of this trend include Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s peach tuxedo at the Oscars 2023 and Rihanna’s peach leather dress during the Off—white runway show in Paris.
2024 marks the 25th anniversary of Pantone’s Color of the Year initiative. Past selections have centred on endurance, optimism, and strength, reflecting the complexities of our times. Eisman compared the current selection to the inaugural Sky Blue in 1999, which balanced hope and apprehension about the future.
As we approach 2024, Pantone’s Peach Fuzz represents more than just a colour trend; it calls for a retreat into comfort and tranquillity amidst global uncertainties. This choice echoes the human need for peace and nostalgia, embodying our collective desire for a gentle respite in our fast-paced world. Peach Fuzz symbolizes the soothing embrace we all seek in a time of continuous change and challenge.
