Pantone’s Colour of the Year for 2023 was announced back in December, but lately I’ve been thinking about how the Pantone Color Institute studies and analyzes the trends and makes their yearly pick — everything from decor, fashion, art, social media, entertainment, travel, etc., is considered when selecting the annual shade. The colour they choose doesn’t just influence interior design — it also impacts product development and buying decisions made by consumers. Since Pantone started colour forecasting 23 years ago (the first colour they picked was Cerulean Blue 15-4020), it’s undeniably made a mark on the design industry.
This year’s hue is Viva Magenta 18-1750 and it’s one of the most vibrant colours they’ve selected in the last five years or so. “Viva Magenta is brave and fearless, a pulsating colour whose exuberance promotes a joyous and optimistic celebration, writing a new narrative,” says the Institute. “It’s an animated red that revels in pure joy, encouraging experimentation and self-expression without restraint, an electrifying, and a boundless shade that is manifesting as a stand-out statement.” This is a colour that’s full of spirit and life and walks a fine line between cool and warm. It’s rich and dramatic, and frankly, I tend to gravitate toward rich, dramatic colours layered with neutrals.
If you love the shade and want to inject it into your wardrobe, the Institute recommends pairing it with blues, pastels and light greys. (You could incorporate it with other pinkish hues and make a statement.) It’s a bold choice when it comes to beauty too, and works beautifully on the lips, cheeks and nails. Of course, Viva Magenta can also be incorporated in the home as a pretty pop of colour against a neutral palette. I’m considering bringing in the dramatic hue in fresh florals (I love flowers in my space) like amaryllis, anemone and gerbera, or in artwork, toss cushions, throw blankets and candles.
What’s your take on Viva Magenta? Let me know at @sarahst.amandinteriordesign.