Viva Magenta! Pantone's Official Color of the Year

Viva Magenta 18-1750 is the color of the year for 2023, according to Pantone. The deep purple shade has been around since the 17th century and was once used as a dye for royal robes—but now it's an emblem of empowerment and community that's becoming increasingly important in our era of social media and political unrest. Magenta's appeal lies in its versatility: Some major fashion houses even use it as one of their signature colors, like Valentino or Louis Vuitton; others pair it with black leather or white denim for their bags and accessories. It's eye-catching and bold, and it will add a pop of color anywhere it is used. Here's everything you need to know about this year's hottest hue.

Photo credit: Window World

What is Pantone?

Pantone is the authority on color. They are responsible for coming up with the annual color of the year, which they've done since 2000. In addition to their role as a leading authority on all things related to color and design, they also use a system of communication called Pantone Matching System (PMS). This system allows designers, artists and other creatives who use color in their work to communicate precisely what shade they're talking about when they reference PMS numbers--like "viva magenta."

Pantone names its color of the year a few times a year. Each date marks the publication of a new book of hues and inspirations to designers and artists, who have their choice of using some or all the colors in their own work. The choices are meant to align with current trends in design, fashion and technology.

Cochineals, the small insects that inspired Pantone's color of 2023. Credit: Huge

Viva Magenta's appeal lies in its versatility.

So, what does it mean when we say "viva magenta"? Well...it's basically just another name for purple! And depending on where you're from (or even where you grew up), this may mean something different than it does elsewhere around the world: In Australia and New Zealand there are two names for purple: magenta (the deeper version) and lavender; while in America there are three different shades: light pinkish purple; dark reddish-purple; bright blueish purple.

Viva Magenta is a vibrant, bold and creative color. The color of love and passion, it's also known for its expressive energy and inspirational power. It reminds us that every day can be an opportunity to be creative, innovative and enthusiastic about life!

The bright magenta hue has a punch of pink that adds a touch of sweetness - perfect for springtime celebrations like birthdays, anniversaries and our favorite, WEDDINGS! This bold and vibrant purple-leaning pink is the perfect color for wedding attire, especially if you're looking for a unique but still wearable shade. It's also a great way to add some pop without being too over-the-top.

Magenta is a great color for all seasons. It can be used as an accent color, or to add a pop of color to a neutral palette. Magenta is also an excellent choice for weddings and parties because it's not too bold or flashy--it fits right in with other brights but still stands out on its own!

Table Décor With a Deep Magenta Tablecloth, Candles, and Orchids: Hochzeitskiste, Bride With the Groom in a Brown Suit Surrounded By Red and Brown Florals: Brides of Austin, Chocolate and Wine Color Palette: Pantone Connect

Photo by: Oksana Miro Creative

What does it mean?

Viva Magenta is a bold and energetic color that will inspire you. It's a color that makes you feel good. To me, it means a lot of things:

• A new beginning; something different, exciting and fresh!
• A new way to see things; a different perspective on life!
• It's also the perfect time to try something totally out-of-the-box with your wedding that may have seemed too risky before now (or even just going for an outfit in an unexpected way).

Photo Credit: MITALI KHANAPURKAR

But now magenta is more than just a pretty color; it's also an emblem of empowerment and community that's become increasingly important in our era of social media and political unrest.

Magenta has always been a powerful hue, but its meaning has shifted over time. In the 16th century, magenta was associated with religious piety; later on, it became known as the "color of royalty." Today, this bright shade has found new significance: It represents empowerment for women and members of the LGBTQ community.

Sources:  yes-yolan.tumblr.com, theimpression.com (Alexander McQueen), retrodisaster.tumblr.com, pinterest.com, retrorenovation.com, goldbookmagazine.com, dazeddigital.com, fashiongonerogue.com, stylepark.com

Get inspired by this vibrant color that's being seen in fashion, art and design.

Viva Magenta is a bold, vivid and energetic shade of purple that's sure to make a statement. This color is full of energy, passion and life--and it's perfect for those who embrace their inner fire!

When you're creating a mood or inspiration board, magenta is an excellent choice because it jumps off the page and creates an air of fun that's perfect for a celebration like your wedding day!

If you're thinking about incorporating Viva Magenta into your wedding day look this year, think about adding some pops of magenta throughout your dress (like on sleeves) or even wearing some jewel tones like amethyst or ruby jewelry pieces instead of traditional gold or silver ones--that way they'll match perfectly with all those vibrant flowers at your ceremony :)

The look you want to go for with this color is one that's fun and romantic, so you might want to consider some other colors that pair well with magenta. These include coral, peach and warm browns like taupe or camel. You can also incorporate these shades in your bouquet, bridesmaids' dresses and other flowers in your décor.

Magenta is also great if you've got other bright colors in mind for your big day! Pairing it with bright yellow or orange will give your wedding colorful flair without being too overwhelming.

Photo by: PS PHOTOGRAPHY + FILMS

Photo credit: Ivory & Beau

The Color of the Year is a fun way to get excited about color, but it's also important to note that there are many other shades out there that can be used in your home, wedding or other events throughout the year. If you don't want to go all-in on viva magenta just yet, consider using it as an accent color--maybe in floral bouquets, favors or even down the aisle!