Despicably Cute Colors

Pantone Reveals 'Minion Yellow,' Its First New Color in Three Years

It may have been three years since Pantone has released a new color, but the brand made it worth the wait with Minion Yellow. Inspired by the beloved Pixar film 'Despicable Me,' the Minion Yellow hue comes just in time to celebrate the upcoming prequel 'Minions.' Born out of an idea by none-other-than Pharrell Williams himself, the research arm of Pantone explored it and came up with something despicably cute.

Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director, Pantone Color Institute, says, "Just as the sun’s rays enliven us, PANTONE Minion Yellow is a color that heightens awareness and creates clarity, lighting the way to the intelligence, originality and the resourcefulness of an open mind – this is the color of hope, joy and optimism."

Pop Culture-inspired Colors
Brands can explore other pop culture references to create new colors and expand their product lines.
Mood-boosting Colors
Brands can leverage the psychological effects of colors to promote emotional wellness and position themselves as holistic brands.
Celebrity-inspired Colors
Brands can partner with celebrities to co-create colors that reflect their branding and capitalize on their popularity.

Sectors Adopting This

Cosmetics Industry
Cosmetics brands can use the new color to design playful, fun, and youthful products that appeal to the trendy and dynamic millennials market.
Fashion Industry
Fashion designers can use the new color to create bold, quirky, and unique looks that appeal to a younger demographic who value exuberance and individuality.
Paint Industry
Paint companies can use the new color to offer customers the opportunity to bring the Minion Yellow trend into their homes and to express their personalities in a playful and optimistic way.
SCORE
4.1 out of 10
GENDER
50% Men50% Women
MARKETTop markets: North America
GENERATION
  • Gen Alpha
  • Gen Z (primary audience)
  • Millennial (primary audience)
  • Gen X (primary audience)
POPULARITY
Popularity 60%
Activity 54%
Freshness 8%

Solutions for innovators working at the edge of change. We help transform emerging ideas into practical, durable solutions by combining strategic thinking, creative exploration, and hands-on execution.

Trends © 2026 Trend Hunter Inc. All Rights Reserved.
LinkedIn Instagram X