Chili Pepper

Pantone's Chili Pepper 19-1557 was the 2007 Color of the Year. This deep, spicy red is an " engaging, resonant hue strikes a high note for fashion and personal expression as its boldness is appealingly eye-catching, sophisticated and enticing," according to the Pantone press release.

“In 2007, there is an awareness of the melding of diverse cultural influences, and Chili Pepper is a reflection of exotic tastes both on the tongue and to the eye. Nothing reflects the spirit of adventure more than the color red," explained Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute®. "At the same time, Chili Pepper speaks to a certain level of confidence and taste. Incorporating this color into your wardrobe and living space adds drama and excitement, as it stimulates the senses.”

Pantone reports this color refuses to be ignored and it reflects an "outgoing, confident, design-savvy attitude."

Lisa Herbert, executive vice president of the fashion, home and interiors division at Pantone, said, "The color red makes a bold statement. We’re seeing shifts in people’s opinions on current events and major changes in the way they are expressing themselves through new technology."

What else happened in 2007:

• This year is designated International Polar Year.
• June- Archeologists discover a 2,100-year-old melon in Japan.
• The final Harry Potter book, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, was released on July 21. In the first 24 hours over 11 million copies were sold, which made it the fastest selling book in history besides the Bible.
• Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End and Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix both grossed over $900 million. They became the ninth and tenth highest grossing film in worldwide history.