Ultra Violet, “a dramatically provocative and thoughtful purple shade”, has been named Pantone Colour of the Year for 2018.
Announcing the 2018 Colour of the Year, Pantone Color Institute executive director Leatrice Eiseman said Pantone 18-388 is a blue-based purple that “communicates originality, ingenuity, and visionary thinking that points us towards the future”.
“It takes our awareness and potential to a higher level,” she said.
“We are living in a time that requires inventiveness and imagination.
“From exploring new technologies and the greater galaxy, to artistic expression and spiritual reflection, intuitive Ultra Violet lights the way to what is yet to come.”
She said the colour “suggests the mysteries of the cosmos, the intrigue of what lies ahead, and the discoveries beyond where we are now”.
“Enigmatic purples have also long been symbolic of counterculture, unconventionality, and artistic brilliance.
“Musical icons Prince, David Bowie and Jimi Hendrix brought shades of Ultra Violet to the forefront of western pop culture as personal expressions of individuality. Nuanced and full of emotion, the depth of Pantone 18-3838 symbolises experimentation and non-conformity, spurring individuals to imagine their unique mark on the world, and push boundaries through creative outlets.”
In fashion, on the runway and on the streets, Ultra Violet is expected to provide “a theatrical linkage for both men’s and women’s style”.
The colour lends itself to “unique colour combinations in fashion and is easier to pair with all colours on the spectrum than one might think”.
“With golds or other metallics, Ultra Violet becomes luxurious and dazzling; with greens or greys it evokes natural elegance.
In the world of beauty, the colour becomes “spell-binding and steeped in spirituality” and is ideal for creating “expressive looks for all”.
“The complex and deep nature of the colour is well-suited for beauty looks created by combinations, blends, and ombres.
“A singular matte purple on the lips or nails makes a bold statement of non-conformity, while softly blended metallics and shimmers in Ultra Violet transform the eyes into windows to the cosmos.
“On the palette for every beauty medium, Ultra Violet complements and emboldens every other colour, adding complexity and mystery.”
Previous Pantone Colours of the Year include:
2017: Greenery
2016: Rose Quartz and Serenity
2015: Marsala
2014: Radiant Orchid
2013: Emerald
2012: Tangerine Tango
2011: Honeysuckle
2010: Turquoise
2009: Mimosa
2008: Blue Iris