Pantone's Color of the Year is Pretty...Ultra:

Every year Pantone, the “world-renowned authority on color” sends a team to scour the globe for emerging design trends to inform their release of the color of the year. While many companies use it as a marketing ploy to sell “limited edition” lipsticks and accessories, it’s undeniable that the psychology of color is one of the most powerful tools that influences our everyday lifestyles and purchasing habits. For me, as a designer, Pantone’s color system is a part of my everyday life and their decision is a welcomed opportunity for inspiration.

Color is so much more than an arbitrary decision but rather a form of expression. I was curious to know how those not entrenched in the design community felt about Ultra-Violet. So, I turned to three opinionated, multi-generational, and particularly-particular-about purple non-designers. Introducing, my best friend, my younger brother, and my favorite Lady in Purple herself: my grandmother, Nanny Reidel, to see how they’re using the color, or whether it is even on their radar.

Elizabeth Penker, Best Friend

Life Passion: Her cat, Penny

How does this color make you feel?

E: It makes me feel calm and relaxed. I immediately think of my lavender essential oils and the spa that I worked at, the spa room was painted a similar color and was meant to help people to get in a calm state of mind.

Would you wear this color or use it in your personal style?

E: For some things. Maybe for little accents here and there, but It seems like it would be overwhelming in large proportions.

If you could choose a color of the year what would it be?

E: I would definitely choose O.P.I ‘s nail polish color Cajun Shrimp. I know its an unusual name but it’s a spicy red-pink that always puts me in a good mood when I wear it.

Jackson Riedel, Brother

Life Passion: Basketball

What do you think of the color of the year?

J: I don’t get it…what is so ultra about it? Okay, and if people aren’t voting then isn’t this a dictatorship? Seems kinda hokey to me.

Would you wear this color or use it in your personal style?

J: Probably not. I guess I would if one of my teams changed their color to ultra violet I would have to wear it.

If you could choose a color of the year what would it be?

J: I would pick a kind of dark blue…and call it Extra Blue.

Nancy Riedel, Grandma aka “The Purple Lady”

Life Passion: Purple and Cats

How do you feel about the color of the year?

N: I love it! Ultra Violet is the perfect shade of purple. It always makes me feel joyful and peaceful. Because I love the color so much*, Pappy (her husband) has incorporated it into his style as well. I tell people when you have been married to a grape for 52 years you get stained by grape juice.

Would you wear this color or use it in your personal style?

N: Of course, everyday! I am excited that they chose it to be the color of the year. Last year was not a purple year, I would search through Chico’s and Macy’s trying to find clothes in my favorite color, but there just wasn’t anything to choose from. It seems like the color has its cycles so I always buy it while I can.

*Side note: Her closet is the Eighth Wonder of the World. You are immediately immersed into every hue of purple imaginable. Tickets for personal tours are available.

Do you incorporate the Pantone Color of the Year in your style, home, or design? Tell us how you express yourself through color in the comments below!