Since we are now in the midst of a legitimate Canadian winter, it seems like only two colours dominate the season: the white of fresh snow and the endless sea of black outerwear. Thankfully the fine folks at Pantone have swooped in to the save us from our dreary winter selves with a big ol’ dose of bright colour.
Every legitimate industry needs authorities; those who act as gatekeepers for what will and won’t enter the mainstream consciousness. When it comes to colour, Pantone – known across the globe for their comprehensive colour-matching system – sets the stage with their annual colour of the year announcement. Each year a colour is selected that serves as an inspirational springboard for the design, fashion and beauty industries. Colours are selected carefully, drawing from a variety of elements ranging from entertainment to nature. Pantone’s colour selection announcement is basically the creative equivalent of Groundhog Day, only with slightly more cultural relevance.
We have now officially waved farewell to the colour of 2013, Emerald, in order to come face to face with this year’s definitive statement shade, Radiant Orchid 18-3224, which will hopefully serve as a reminder that spring should be coming soon (or maybe I’m getting ahead of myself).
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According to Leatrice Eiseman, executive director at Pantone, “Radiant Orchid’s rosy undertones radiate on the skin, producing a healthy glow when worn by both men and women.” The shade is said to pair well with reds and similar shades of purple and pink, which will provide some exciting nail and lip colour options this year.
Pantone has one foot firmly planted in the makeup industry, partnering annually with Sephora to feature products in the unique yearly shade from a variety of well-known brands. Radiant Orchid is a punchy purple shade that can easily be swapped in where pink shades took precedence in makeup looks before. Even if you’ve yet to be convinced by the purple reign, all Prince jokes aside, here are the top three to keep your eye out for:
Sephora Collection Liquid Eyeliner in Fancy Violet, Marc Jacobs Beauty Enamored Hi-Shine Nail Lacquer in Qui! and Nars Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in Never Say Never.
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