Pantone’s Color of the Year Has Arrived— and Here’s How To Wear It

This winter season is different than any other, and yet some things remain the same. One of those, of course, is Pantone's color of the year — and this season, we’re all smiles for one of the latest hues. “Illuminating” is the name for the cheerful color, which takes form in a light, sunshine-worthy yellow. Of course, as a new year dawns, we’re looking forward to a bright future filled with hope and possibilities. What better color to epitomize this than yellow? We rounded up our top picks for how to wear this tone as we ring in 2021 — and hope you find them nothing short of illuminating.

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Comfy Sweater

Sweaters are a must-have this time of year, so why not go for the bold? A soft, cozy knit is the perfect piece to ring in the new year, especially in the season’s brightest new tone. Whether you’re hosting cocktail hour over Zoom or cooking dinner with your loved ones, it pairs just as well with your favorite skirt or jeans as a comfy pair of leggings. Throw one on for an instant dose of optimism!

Polo Ralph Lauren cable-knit V-neck sweater, $128; ralphlauren.com

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Midi Dress

Midi dresses are our favorite pieces to wear this time of year, especially to dress up a winter outfit! If you want to glam up even your fluffiest pair of slippers, we recommend a satin, silk or knit style with dramatic sleeves. Slip on a midi dress and pair it with your favorite cocktail, and you’ve got a look that’s magical enough to cure any winter blues.

True Violet midi dress, $110; asos.com

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Sweet Heels

Nothing adds some cheer to a dreary winter day like a sweet pair of pumps. Even if your outfit isn’t the most sparkly or shiny, a pair of pumps in bright yellow tones can make all the difference. Especially this time of year, shoes with crystals or other embellishments make any outfit instantly eye-catching. Pair them with pants or skirts in a similar material for a textured color-blocked effect, or with a yellow dress in the same hue for a monochrome moment.

Manolo Blahnik ‘Lurum’ mule pumps, $1,295; bergdorfgoodman.com

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Textured Skirt

Textures never go out of style, especially for skirts! A pleated, fringed or ruffled skirt makes for a perfect winter piece, whether you’re wearing it to a socially-distanced dinner party, at home with family or loved ones, or just by yourself. It’s lightweight and easy to pair with anything and is sure to keep you warm if you venture outside in the cold. Plus, textures will make any look appear polished and put-together — even if you threw it on last-minute.

Paskal fringed skirt, $443; farfetch.com

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Statement Earrings

In our books, statement earrings are a winter essential! Especially in the age of Zoom, accessories have been the best way to add a splash of sparkle to your outfits — even if they’re just a nice top or sweater paired with your favorite leggings and slippers. We’re loving earrings with stones, lucite and resin in every shade of yellow for an extra glam approach to jewelry this season.

Frances Valentine ‘Chile’ hoop earrings, $78; francesvalentine.com