Pastel (color)

Pastel

Pastel sticks in a variety of colors
Common connotations
Soothing

Pastels or pastel colors belong to a pale family of colors, which, when described in the HSV color space, have high value and low saturation.^[1][2] They are named after an artistic medium made from pigment and solid binding agents, similar to crayons. Pastel sticks historically tended to have lower saturation than paints of the same pigment, hence the name of this color family. The popularity of pastel colors has evolved over time, with notable periods of prominence in various historical and cultural contexts. A significant era that saw a surge in the popularity of pastel colors was the late 19th century, particularly during the Victorian era.^[3]

These delicate tones exhibit a soft and muted appearance, evoking a sense of tranquility and refinement. Pastel colors are characterized by their gentle, subtle quality,^[4] often conveying a feeling of innocence and sophistication. The colors of this family are usually described as "soothing."^[5] Pink, mauve,^[6] and baby blue^[7] are commonly used pastel colors, as are mint green, peach, periwinkle, lilac, and lavender. Pastel colors are common in the kawaii aesthetic.

Commonly utilized in art, design, fashion, and interior decoration, pastel hues encompass a spectrum of soft pinks, blues, greens, yellows, and purples. Their understated elegance renders them a popular choice for conveying a sense of gentleness and aesthetic subtlety in various creative endeavors. The pastel color still has its presences overtime in design world, since it preserve the natural beauty of raw colors without being too hard on the eyes.