At the beginning of December the Pantone Colour of the Year 2020 was announced, Pantone 19-4502 Classic Blue. It’s a shade that we have seen a lot of recently but we couldn’t remember why until it dawned on us – why, it’s one of Kate Middleton’s favourite ever shades!
And who can blame her? Classic blue reportedly symbolises confidence, stability and according to some experts, encourages thoughtfulness and peace. Blue is also a classic regal shade – it’s the colour of Kate’s engagement ring and the shade she chose to wear when announcing her engagement to Prince William (who can forget that slinky Issa dress?)
Classic blue is a neutral and rich shade, making it universally flattering and easy to wear for anyone – whether you’re a 5”10 brunette-haired duchess or not.
According to Pantone, the ‘classic blue’ shade is a popular choice because it’s “non-aggressive and easily relatable” and is “the trusted Classic Blue lends itself to relaxed interaction.” The deep, vivid blue shade “fosters resilience” which may be needed for Kate who is one of the most photographed women in the world and has a huge public-facing image to upkeep.
Pantone Colour Institute executive director Leatrice Eiseman, said: “That dusky, midnight blue speaks of the day winding down, a time to seek refuge, to seek quiet.”
The classic blue has proven to be a staple in Kate’s royal wardrobe for a number of years – from red carpet events in India to state visits to Poland. The duchess often wears the colour in styles she knows suit her: fitted coats with nipped-in waists and midi-length dresses, continually returning to wearing the hue time and time again.
Pantone states, “As technology continues to race ahead of the human ability to process it all, it is easy to understand why we gravitate to colours that are honest and offer the promise of protection” and that seems to be the case for the royal.
If it ain’t broke why fix it?
See some of Kate Middleton’s best Pantone 2020 colour moments below…