Pantone Color of the Year: 5 Clever Ways to Incorporate Color into your Life

Written by Farah Ashfaq | Last modified on:

Pantone Color

With 2018 comes a New Year, a new you, and a brand new Pantone Color of the Year. This year’s hue, Ultra Violet 18-3838, is a true sign of the times — bold, empowered, unapologetic, and in no way subtle.

Pantone Color of the Year Ultra Violet

According to Pantone, Ultra Violet represents “originality, ingenuity, and visionary thinking that points us toward the future,” which sounds right on brand with the year to come.

You can get in touch with the cosmic vibes of these times by experimenting with deep purples like Ultra Violet to express the creative and artistic spirit within you. Looking to give a nod toward Ultra Violet in your own way? Check out these 5 tips for incorporating Pantone Color of the Year 2018 into your life!

  • Drop a Hint with Accessories

When it comes to purple shades, accessories are an easy, affordable way to incorporate your new tone into your existing wardrobe. Scarves, hats, bags, and shoes in this shade tend to compliment every outfit and skin tone, and jewelry of just about any type can really set off a neutral color palette (think little black dress or a camel-colored coat).

Worried that all that dreamy, violet energy might be too hard to match up? Stay prepared with a color changing nail polish that bends and shifts with your surroundings to create a fun, spontaneous way to work with those accessories from head to toe (fun fact: color changing polish actually relies on ultraviolet light to produce that magic effect, making for one truly clever way to honor this year’s color of choice).

  • Create a Pop of Color Around the Home with Blankets and Throw Pillows

For the classic homebodies looking to express themselves with Ultra Violet, there’s no better way to introduce a bold hue than by peppering the home with small yet mighty pops of color. Blankets, throws, pillows, and rugs can make for a great addition to just about any room, and because Ultra Violet is so rich, you won’t have to worry about anything looking tacky or mis-matchy when paired with these subtle design ideas.

  • Wear it Front and Center with Lipsticks and Eyeshadow

A fun and easy way to make a statement with Ultra Violet pantone color of the year starts front and center, right on the face. A deep purple lipstick will be sure to grab attention while providing a air of mystery, and can totally carry an otherwise makeup-free face if you’re rushing out the door. Lipstick too much to stay on top of? Create a light, smokey daytime eye with a purple shadow, or play up those cheekbones with an iridescent highlight in a purple or blue shade with pink and gold undertones to really catch the light.

  • Feeling a Little Reserved? Punch Up Walls with Picture Frames

Ultra Violet and other purples can be a lot for some people, especially if your style tends to be more modest or quiet. If that’s the case, but you still want in on the Color of the Year, start small with purple picture frames, placemats, coasters, or violet votive candle holders for a quick little punch-up that can easily be changed up as needed.

  • Go All Out with a Purple Mop on Top

This one certainly isn’t for everyone, but if you’re really looking to make a statement, tainting those tresses is a sure-fire way to do it. Non-traditional colors are becoming more and more accepted as everyday looks in recent years, and because purples range so widely in shades, it’s among the best to experiment with if you’re looking to change it up. Not ready for such a commitment? Simple streaks placed just under the top layer of hair can add a tasteful way to play around with a new look.