Color experts shape many industries and influence global trends, so designers eagerly awaited Pantone’s Color of the Year for 2023. That selection is Viva Magenta, a spirited and vivid hue rooted in the red family and inspired by natural pigments. This bold shade brings energy, optimism, and a sense of empowerment to design, fashion, interiors, and visual communications.
The vision for Pantone’s Color of the Year 2023
Following 2022’s Very Peri, Pantone’s new pick signals a fresh chapter in color trends. Viva Magenta draws its inspiration from the cochineal, a tiny insect historically used to create intense red dyes. This natural lineage gives the color a feeling of authenticity and depth: it’s vibrant but not overly electric, combining warm and cool undertones that create a balanced, versatile red.
Pantone describes Viva Magenta as a color that champions self-expression. It encourages designers and creators to take risks and experiment. As a lively red, it makes a confident statement while remaining adaptable enough to complement a variety of palettes and materials. Whether used boldly or as an accent, the hue offers opportunities for personal and creative expression.
Viva Magenta in action
Viva Magenta’s unique balance of warm and cool undertones makes it highly adaptable. Interior designers can use it to anchor a room with a dramatic, statement piece—think a velvet sofa, an accent wall, or a bold upholstery choice. In more restrained schemes, a few magenta accessories—pillows, throws, vases, or artwork—bring instant warmth and personality without overwhelming the space.
In fashion, Viva Magenta translates well across fabrics and finishes. It reads as both modern and timeless, working in rich textures like velvet and suede or in glossy synthetics and technical materials. As a wardrobe accent, it energizes neutrals, and when worn head-to-toe, it creates a confident, memorable look.
Graphic designers and marketers are likely to embrace Viva Magenta for its attention-grabbing qualities. Its intensity helps headlines, call-to-action buttons, and promotional visuals stand out in crowded media environments. Because it’s bold yet surprisingly approachable, Viva Magenta can be used to communicate passion, creativity, and forward-thinking energy without appearing aggressive.
How to pair and apply Viva Magenta
Viva Magenta pairs beautifully with a wide range of colors. For a sophisticated palette, combine it with muted neutrals—taupes, warm greys, and cream—to allow the magenta to pop while maintaining balance. For a high-contrast, contemporary look, pair Viva Magenta with deep navy, forest green, or charcoal. Complementary accents in gold, brass, or warm wood tones add richness and tactile contrast.
When using Viva Magenta in branding or digital interfaces, pay attention to contrast and accessibility. Ensure sufficient contrast between text and background or provide darker or lighter variations of the color for readability. In print, consider how the color reproduces on different substrates and finishes—matte papers, textured textiles, and glossy coatings will all shift the perception of the hue.
Practical tips for designers
- Start small: Introduce Viva Magenta through accessories, trims, or accent pieces before committing to larger applications.
- Test in context: View the color under the lighting conditions where it will be used—daylight and artificial light can change its appearance.
- Mix textures: Pair the color with varied materials to highlight its versatility—soft textiles, reflective metals, and natural woods create layered interest.
- Use sparingly online: In UX and web design, reserve the color for key actions or focal points to maximize impact.
Viva Magenta heralds a lively, optimistic direction for 2023. Its natural inspiration, balanced undertones, and capacity for bold self-expression make it a flexible tool for creatives across disciplines. Whether used as a daring centerpiece or as a subtle accent, the shade invites designers to be more adventurous and expressive in their work.