NEW YORK—Move over plum and lavender because 2018 is officially the year of Ultra Violet.

I’ve been hyping up the color purple since the end of 2017 with my VMAIL Weekend article about Prince’s custom color, Love Symbol #2 and Style.Page feature dubbed “Purple Reign” that followed. And I have to give myself a little pat on the back when I said that purple is “…the reigning color of the moment.”

With the Pantone Color Institute naming PANTONE 18-3838 Ultra Violet the 2018 Color of the Year, they’ve provided an inspiring interpretation for their color choice that would benefit any of us as we look to the year ahead.

Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute said, “We are living in a time that requires inventiveness and imagination. It is this kind of creative inspiration that is indigenous to PANTONE 18-3838 Ultra Violet, a blue-based purple that takes our awareness and potential to a higher level.” She continued, “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.”

While this color is complex and contemplative, it also alludes to the endless possibilities that the next 12 months have in store. From creative and unconventional to exploration and reflection, Ultra Violet seems to be a thoughtful way to approach the New Year as we’re faced with new prospects and even challenges.

“As individuals around the world become more fascinated with color and realize its ability to convey deep messages and meanings, designers and brands should feel empowered to use color to inspire and influence,” said Laurie Pressman, vice president of the Pantone Color Institute. “The Color of the Year is one moment in time that provides strategic direction for the world of trend and design, reflecting the Pantone Color Institute’s year-round work doing the same for designers and brands.”


 		 

From fashion and beauty to design and home décor, this is the color to watch. So, whatever goals, plans, and resolutions you have mapped out for 2018, channel a little mystery and creativity with some inspiration from Ultra Violet.