Pantone: The 20th Century in Color

January 10, 2012

Today, I’m going to share my new favorite book with you, Pantone: The Twentieth Century in Color. What makes this book so amazing is that it covers the evolution of color in our society over the last 100 years, from 1900 onwards. Each decade receives its own chapter along with corresponding images of art, fashion and decor representative of particular palettes that were popular during that period.

Excerpts from Pantone: The 20th Century in Color.

From the swatches of 1930s The Wizard of Oz (Silver, Straw and Lion) to 1980s Miami Vice (Pink Mist, Lavendula and Radiant Orchid) to 1990s Grunge (Coffee Bean, Faded Denim and Earth Red), the cultural movements of America and the colors they helped influence are all painstakingly covered. Students of graphic and fashion design as well as lovers of color theory will adore this book.

12 Responses to Pantone: The 20th Century in Color

Happy Mango says:

January 10, 2012 at 9:10 am

AWESOME post Nubby!! book has been added on my “to-buy-list”. love colors!! =)

Reply
Annie says:

January 10, 2012 at 10:03 am

Whilst I’m not a graphic designer (I love reading your blog about it and your take on life) that book is amazing. As someone who loves colour, I’d buy it just for that.

Reply
- Nubby says:
  
  January 12, 2012 at 8:52 am
  
  Annie: Yes, it’s the perfect book for color lovers. Though I don’t use a lot of color in my surroundings or work, I love learning about the history and corresponding palettes.
  
  Reply
Luke Copping says:

January 10, 2012 at 2:21 pm

It is such an amazing book, got it over the holidays and have spent the following weeks reading and re-reading it.

Reply
- Nubby says:
  
  January 12, 2012 at 8:50 am
  
  Luke Copping: I’m glad you’re loving it too. Because of all the unique color palettes and historical references, it seems like such a great reference book for photographers as well!
  
  Reply
Moni says:

January 10, 2012 at 9:04 pm

Wow, I love the idea of this book! I’m really excited to pick it up and be inspired by the various palettes.

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Connie says:

January 11, 2012 at 6:25 am

This reminded me of you:

http://www.oldtomfoolery.com/product/typestache-poster-fg-1

It’s a Typestache Poster by Old Tom Foolery.

(I promise this isn’t spam!)

Reply
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Danielle says:

January 11, 2012 at 4:32 pm

Saw this book in Urban Outfitters in NYC (14th and 6th Avenue) and immediately thought of you!

XOXO,
Danielle

Reply
- Nubby says:
  
  January 12, 2012 at 8:47 am
  
  Danielle: Aww, I’m glad Pantone reminds you of me! My husband gave me the book for Christmas and it’s seriously one of the BEST presents I’ve ever gotten.
  
  Reply
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Gracie says:

January 16, 2012 at 6:07 am

LOVE the top photo. Makes me happy.

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