Shutterstock Inc. has launched its 2020 Color Trends report. By analyzing billions of pixel data from images downloaded, and then mapping each pixel to its closest named hex code, the report reveals which colors had the greatest growth between 2018 and 2019, as well as local favorites from around the world. Shutterstock’s 1.9 million customers include designers, marketers, creatives and bloggers who are often working months in advance on campaigns and projects. The downloaded choices help to forecast trends in the year ahead.
“This year’s trending colors are particularly interesting because they’re not only visually arresting, but also functional as both focal points and accent colors,” said Mike McCabe, VP of creative, Shutterstock. “Lush Lava, Aqua Menthe and Phantom Blue are a sophisticated upgrade from last year’s neon trio, but just as attention-grabbing and they work surprisingly well together. What’s so cool about our trends is that they’re decided entirely by what our users have downloaded, so the people really are picking what’s hot. We’re excited to see how these colors are brought to life over the next year in TV spots, marketing campaigns, fashion and film.”
The colors that have grown the most in popularity:
Aqua Menthe—#7FFFD4: a vivid, cyan-tinged mint shade that is perfect for conveying a playful, modern and outgoing brand personality.
Lush Lava—#FF4500: a bold and fiery orange-red that quickly catches the eye—the noticeably warm color will help companies draw attention to their brand.
Phantom Blue—#191970: a rich navy with significant depth, mimicking a dramatic night sky—ideal for a more professional, mature brand look and feel.
In addition to the top three fastest-growing colors in popularity globally, the report also highlights the top trending color for 24 countries. From a mossy green in South Korea, to a dark orchid in Brazil, these shades show local favorites across different regions, which are also based on year-over-year growth.
