The Pantone Color Institute recently introduced not one but two colors of the year for 2021, veering away from selecting just one color for the New Year. But this is not the first time in 20 years that the organization chose two colors, as in 2016, Pantone chose Rose Quartz and Serenity as Colors of the Year. For 2021, Pantone chose Illuminating, a bright and cheerful yellow and Ultimate Gray, which represents reliability and practicality. The goal of the two Pantone Colors of the Year is to convey a message of strength and hope (yellow) that is both enduring and reliable. In honor of the 2021 Pantone Colors of the Year, we have selected five amazing looks that utilize the contemporary yellow-and-gray color combinations in 2021.
Look 1: Smart Casual for Work and Play
1. ADELYN RAE Layla Culotte Jumpsuit in Marigold
Begin this look with one of two Pantone Colors of the Year: Illuminating. This gorgeous and functional marigold-colored culotte jumpsuit from Adelyn Rae features perfect pleats and channel-stitched panels that truly elevate this sophisticated work-to-weekend jumpsuit that showcases a cropped length. It has front slant pockets that are super useful, adjustable shoulder straps, a square neckline, and a hidden back-zip closure. Perfect for looks that go from work to play and back again. Get 40% off for a limited time at Nordstrom.
2. BLANKNYC Onto the Next Faux Leather Drape Front Jacket in Graphite
Add on some layers with this BlankNYC faux leather jacket that features a cascading collar and a cozy color-matched interior for a raw-cut finish. This buttery faux-leather piece is great to wear across seasons as it is made of 60% polyurethane and 40% viscose, making for comfortable wear every time. Layer with a jumpsuit, jeans, skirt, or whatever you wish. Get 50% off for a limited time at Nordstrom.
3. REBECCA MINKOFF Leather Wallet Clutch in Gunmetal
Bring along style and function day to night with the Rebecca Minkoff leather wallet clutch, a metallic leather wallet that can hold your cards and cash in one neat package. This day to night clutch features magnetic-snap flap closures, an exterior slip pocket, an interior zip and currency pocket, and nine card slots. Shop at Nordstrom.
4. BOTTEGA VENETA Stretch Square Toe Sandal
Add a touch of retro to this look with the Bottega Veneta square toe sandal with a stiletto heel. A nappa sandal with an exaggerated square toe, this pair features a grippy rubber-injected sole for better stability. It also features a 3.5 inch heel, an adjustable ankle strap with buckle closure, and is crafted from leather. Made in Italy. Shop at Nordstrom.
5. DAVID YURMAN Continuance Hoop Earrings
Complete this look with the Continuance Hoop Earrings from David Yurman, a pair that can be worn to work and to evening outings as well. These earrings feature 18-karat yellow gold and are crafted by the David Yurman brand, founded by the sculptor of the same name and his wife, a painter named Sybil. Together, they built their house of design in 1980 and since then have been offering pieces showcasing the finest precious metals and rare gemstones crafted by some of the world’s most talented craftsmen and women. Shop at Nordstrom.
Look 2: Anticipating Spring
1. LOVEAPPELLA Crochet Yoke Top
A look that’s perfect for the Spring/Summer season, this Loveapella Crochet Yoke Top features a charming boat neck and cap sleeves for a touch of femininity. Its crochet-inspired detailing at the yoke adds a breeze, vintage-chic update to a contemporary piece that you’ll love to wear through the Spring and Summer seasons. Shop at Nordstrom.
2. JOE’S The Kinsley High Waist Destroyed Cutoff Denim Shorts in Perilla
Yearning for festival days? Then this pair of cutoff denim shorts is for you. Joe’s The Kinsey denim shorts features a rocking, fest-ready style with its exposed-button-fly, destroyed holey abrasions, and frayed cutoff hems. It features a give-pocket style and an 11-inch front rise for a sassy look. This pair of denim cutoffs are made of 100% cotton. Get 40% off for a limited time at Nordstrom.
3. VINCE CAMUTO Treesha Pump in Yellow/Coral
Add a touch of rock and roll to this look with the Treesha Pump from Vince Camuto. This stiletto pump offers a bold spin to the beloved animal-print trend thanks to its combination of yellow, coral, and black. It features a closed pointy toe and a 4-inch heel and is made of leather. Get 40% off for a limited time at Nordstrom.
4. TORY BURCH Fish Mismatch Drop Earrings in Brass
Speaking of rock and roll, this quirky and fun pair of earrings from Tory Burch are inspired by mobile sculptures from the 1950s. This unique pair features one stationary earring and one articulated piece that sways as you move, making it a true art piece. This pair got a 5 out of 5 star rating from customers. Shop at Nordstrom.
5. GORJANA Power Stone Stretch Bracelet in Strength (Pyrite, Gold)
A touch of sparkle is added to your look with the Gorjana Power Stone bracelet. Offering up to 10 variations of stones, this bracelet pictured here features pyrite, which often stands for strength, power, success, and happiness, just a few things we’d like for ourselves in 2021! This bracelet features faceted semi precious-stone beads and gold-plated nuggets that when worn serves as a reminder to exude positive vibes wherever your journey takes you. Shop at Nordstrom.
Look 3: Cocktail Chic
1. RAMY BROOK Caitlin Tiered Ruffle Sleeveless Minidress in Marigold
This look begins with the Ramy Brook Caitlin Tiered Ruffle Sleeveless Minidress in a bright, charming yellow color. Its unique golden hue adds an exuberant air to the ruffled dress that is elevated by a smocked detail that defines the waist. The dress features a v-neck, sleeveless, smocked waist and unlined slip over the head style for easy wear. Made of 100% polyester. Shop at Nordstrom.
2. CALPAK Faux Leather RFID Travel Wallet in Charcoal
This streamlined travel wallet from Calpak features crosshatched faux leather with a thoughtfully designed interior. It features exterior sli and zip pockets, an interior currency pocket, passport and document pockets, six card slots with RFID lining, a pen loop, and key clip. Adding a chic, contemporary touch to this functional travel wallet is an optional faux-fur handle and slim crossbody strap so you can wear it multiple ways. Shop at Nordstrom.
3. NATURALIZER Joy Ankle Strap Sandal in Pewter Metallic Leather
A touch of retro and contemporary style combine in the Joy Ankle Strap Sandal from Naturalizer. It features a slim ankle strap and a block-heel sandal that inspires us to dance the night away with its sleek Pewter Metallic Leather material. This pair features the N5 Comfort footbed for easy wear. Get 40% off for a limited time at Nordstrom.
4. VERSUS VERSACE Brigitte Bangle Watch, 34mm in Yellow Gold
With a slew of sculptural details, the Versus Versace Brigitte Bangle Watch is a darling to wear to both work and casual outings. It features a zigzag guilloche dial, a faceted bezel and dagger-like indexes that together form a striking effect to this gorgeous watch. It also features lion heads that make for unique, regal branding like no other. This watch features a 34mm case and 115mm band width, an adjustable bracelet, fold-over clasp closure, Quartz movement, a mineral crystal face, and stainless steel with gold ionic plate. Shop at Nordstrom.
5. DAVID YURMAN Châtelaine® 18k Gold Drop Earrings with Diamonds in Gold, Diamond, and Citrine
Calling to mind the champagne hues of New Year celebrations, the David Yurman Châtelaine® 18k Gold Drop Earrings features a gorgeous collection of Pavé diamonds, champagne citrine and madeira citrine in these drop earrings that are sure to dazzle in any New Year’s Eve celebration. Shop at Nordstrom.
Look 4: A Shining, Shimmering New Year’s Eve
1. RAMY BROOK Bonny Long Sleeve Sheath Minidress
Gearing up for an intimate New Year’s Eve party? Then grab this minidress from Ramy Brook, an extravagantly charming shimmering faux-wrap dress featuring a deep V-neck, balloon sleeves, and a ruched tulip skirt. With just the amount of sexy and fun, the Ramy Brook Bonny sheath minidress is easy to slip on over the head and has an elastic waist to keep it in place no matter how much you dance until midnight. Get 40% off for a limited time at Nordstrom.
2. TED BAKER LONDON Theanna Sandal in Bright Yellow Leather
Unleash your wild side with the Theanna Sandal from Ted Baker London, a strappy sandal with a svelte stiletto heel wrapped in Pantone Colors of the Year: bright yellow leather and a gray snake print. This pair features a polished metal toe plate and a logo-embellished buckle that add flashes of gleam to your New Year’s Eve look. Get 40% for a limited time at Nordstrom.
3. PERRIN L’Eiffel Crystal Embellished Leather Clutch in Zest
A crystal embellished hand strap adds drama to this eye-catching leather clutch that features a zesty lemon color. Architectural lines inspired by the iconic Eiffel Tower adorn this leather clutch’s handle, which sparkles as you move. It features a magnetic snap flap closure, front carry handle, and an internal card slot. Made of leather, metal, and Swarovski crystal. Get 40% off for a limited time at Nordstrom.
4. JOHN HARDY Classic Chain Hammered Spear 18K Gold Drop Earrings
Add a svelte sparkle to your New Year’s Eve look with this pair of drop earrings from John Hardy, which feature hand-hammered spears at the end of these long 18-karat-gold chain earrings. Its sensuous, shoulder-dusting sway is desirable and chic. It features a 3-inch drop, French wire, and is made of 18k gold. Shop at Nordstrom.
5. DAVID YURMAN Tides Ring in 18k Gold with Diamonds in Gold and Citrine
Citrine, 0.19 carat diamonds, and 18K karat yellow gold combine in this eye-catching ring that will help you ring in the New Year! The citrine stone is associated with wealth, prosperity, and success, as well as joyfulness and wonder, which we hope would be abundant this 2021, making it a perfect accessory for the New Year. Shop at Nordstrom.
Look 5: Springtime Folly
1. O’NEILL Freely Wrap Front Crop Top in Bright Lemon
Celebrate the coming of Spring with the Pantone Colors of the year with this look that begins with the O’Neill Freely Wrap Front Crop Top, which features dainty blooms in a cropped styled top. It features a dipped surplice neck and sweet back smocking for a truly feminine look. This top is made of 100% viscose. Shop at Nordstrom.
2. RAG & BONE Cutoff Denim Miniskirt in Black
A touch of vintage chic style levels up your Spring look with this Rag & Bone Cutoff Denim Miniskirt which features a grungy cutoff hem and whiskered finish. This non-stretch denim features a zip fly with button closure and a five pocket style, perfect for any weekend getaway in the Springtime. Made in the U.S. Shop at Nordstrom.
3. CECELIA NEW YORK Hibiscus Sandal in Golden Sun Leather
Continuing on with the floral Spring theme is the Ceceilia New York Hibiscus Sandal, which features a bold flower blooming at the ankles of this pair. This attention-grabbing lace-up sandal also features an angled block heel, an open toe, and a tie closure at the ankle. Shop at Nordstrom.
4. MULBERRY Small Amberley Leather Shoulder Bag in Charcoal
Make sure you have your essentials with you as you travel with this small Amberley Leather Shoulder Bag from Mulberry. Featuring an easy to mix and match charcoal color, the Amberley features a classic equestrian styling with its saddle silhouette and ring hardware made of grained calfskin leather. Its rider’s lock clasp is also reminiscent of horse bits and bridles, making for a modern interpretation of the brand’s postman’s clasp. This shoulder bag features a turnlock flap closure, adjustable shoulder strap, interior wall pocket, and a suede lining. Made in the U.K. Shop at Nordstrom.
5. OSCAR DE LA RENTA Crystal Flower Button Earrings
Complete this Spring-ready look with this pair of flower button earrings from Oscar de la Renta, which features sparkling crystals that illuminate the center and delicate petals of this floral themed pair. It is crafted from pewter, glass crystals, brass, steel, and goldtone plate. Made in the U.S. Shop at Nordstrom.
For more stories on New Year and fashion, make sure to check out what you may have missed in the links from our archive below.
Pantone Colors of the Year Themed Home Accessories for New Year 2021
Post-Holiday Decluttering and Organizing Tips and Tricks
5 Fun New Year’s Eve 2021 Party Themes
New Year’s Eve Party Supplies You Need for an Awesome Countdown Celebration
The Best New Year’s Eve Party Makeup to Ring in the New Year
New Year’s Party Fashion Accessories to Make You Shine
New Year’s Party Fashion Guide: Head-turning Dresses and Shoes
Just a disclaimer – We have partnered with these companies because we use their products and/or proudly trust and endorse them – so we do receive a commission if you make a purchase or sign up for services. Often, we are able to negotiate special discounts and/or bonuses, which we will pass on to you via our links. We often get short notice on sale items available for 24-48 hours as we will pass these savings onto you.
