Viva Magenta | Color of the Year 2023

Pantone announced Viva Magenta as the 2023 color of the year!

And in their words, “Viva Magenta is brave and fearless.”

You are probably wondering why we have a yearly color. In 1999 the Pantone Color Institute created an educational program called the Pantone Color of the Year. They described the program as a way “to engage the design community and color enthusiasts around the world in a conversation around color.”

The visual language of color in design is powerful because it tells a story of how you want the world to perceive you and how you want to make them feel. Know that everyone responds to color differently. Color is not just sight. It is taste, touch, hearing, and smell. When you create a multi-sensory experience, you are taking your guests on a journey to create a memorable encounter. As a result, color has influenced industries such as beauty, home and interior, textiles, and apparel, to name a few.

Viva Magenta floats between red and pink and can make a bold statement or be used in a subtle way to complement the overall design. This adaptable color will work well with any event.

What Colors Compliment Viva Magenta?

I will not overwhelm you with the technical names of the different types of color palettes, but I will give you some colors to consider. Try gentle shades of beige and sand. They are neutral and help Viva Magenta to stand out even more. Ahh pink. Attempt to pair various shades of pink and increase their intensity which gives you a gradual sense of elevation without overpowering.

These next two colors you may not have thought of as complimentary because they are opposites and in the jewel tone family. But Navy and Emerald Green can give a vibrant and sophisticated look.

Now, if you are looking for something more modern and edgy, black is the answer. Adding black instantly creates a feeling of mystery and elegance. Lastly, if you want a bold and colorful look, add pops of yellow or orange. These colors can be fun and creative.

How to Use Viva Magenta in Your Design

Here is where I go back to the multi-sensory experience. What you do not want to do is give people sensory overload with your design color, so be gentle. You can set the tone of your event design by using Viva Magenta for your complete invitation suite by adding hints of this color or leaving it as a solid color. Let that carry over to your menu cards, embossed napkins, drink stirrers, and signage.

For your tabletop, chose a patterned tablecloth to give excitement, or incorporate the color through your china, glassware, napkins, candles, vases, or bowls. Next, choose seasonal florals to compliment the look. Some florals to keep in mind would be roses, calla lilies, ranunculus, and peonies. Fresh fruit, such as figs, pomegranates, cherries, and red pears can provide different shades of magenta to express flare to your décor.

Viva Magenta can be a statement piece or used as accent with your lounge furniture, pillows, throws, rugs, or a bar. There are so many ways to play with Viva Magenta in your design. It is bold, playful, and energizing.

How will you write your color story in 2023?

Our team looks forward to helping you create your color of the year experience for your next event. Please reach out below if you have any questions or would like to have a conversation about an upcoming event you’re dreaming of.