Pantone has designated PANTONE 18-3224 Radiant Orchid as the 2014 color of the year. An X-Rite company and respected global authority on color, Pantone describes the color as “a captivating, magical, enigmatic purple.”

“While the 2013 color of the year, PANTONE 17-5641 Emerald, served as a symbol of growth, renewal and prosperity, Radiant Orchid reaches across the color wheel to intrigue the eye and spark the imagination,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute. “An invitation to innovation, Radiant Orchid encourages expanded creativity and originality, which is increasingly valued in today’s society.”

“An enchanting harmony of fuchsia, purple and pink undertones, Radiant Orchid inspires confidence and emanates great joy, love and health,” she added. “It is a captivating purple, one that draws you in with its beguiling charm.”

The color is expected to be used in interior design, fashion and cosmetics.

“We love the Pantone colors and use them every day to communicate between production and art,” said Jayme Brandt, owner and designer of apparel and art company Gardenfire. “I follow the color forecast closer than the weather channel. I believe Radiant Orchid will be all over the place and certainly on some Gardenfire apparel and gifts.”

Sherry Morris, marketing manager at Carpentree, is pleased with the color of the year selection.

“Carpentree loves the very idea of Radiant Orchid as a home accent color,” Morris said. “This uplifting hue brightens neutrals and pairs well with teal, turquoise, yellow and shades of green. Expect to see this lovely accent color mixed into 2014 framed art and gift products (especially this fall). A delightful color, this pleasant purple ignites creativity and is a happy tone associated with joy, love and health. As an accent color, it will blend well into neutral homes or into those homes of color adventurous souls who  have opted in to recent brighter and bolder color trends. Watch how Radiant Orchid and its positive appeal translates into great decor and gift products for today's Christian consumer.”

Gift retailers may wish to use the color of the year in paint, accent pieces and accessories.

“Radiant Orchid complements olive and deeper hunter greens, and offers a gorgeous combination when paired with turquoise, teal and even light yellows,” according to Pantone. “Likewise, the vibrant color is sure to liven up neutrals including gray, beige and taupe. Uplifting and bold without being overpowering, Radiant Orchid reenergizes almost any color palette and provides a unifying element for diverse spaces.”

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