Purple Reign
2017 has been one for the year books. As the year comes to an end, we can’t help but reminisce on the inevitable highs and lows, while also looking forward to a bolder, brighter future. In one of the most surprising announcements of the year, Pantone has officially named ultra violet as the defining color of 2018.
Why ultra violet? Fundamentally, violet is composed of two colors— red and blue— not-coincidentally very similar to our two political parties. With all the jawdropping headlines and political acrimony we saw throughout 2017, ultra violet has emerged as the much needed peacemaker. Hopefully this suggests that two political parties will finally come together to create something beautiful and find a new way to move forward toward our shared mutual goals.
Historically, violet purple was a color reserved for royalty due to it’s high cost of production. It wasn’t until 1856 that the color became available to the masses, thanks to a new synthetic process which allowed the color to be produced at a lower cost; “for the people, and by the people.” “Ultra Violet” suggests a new approach — harmony, unity, originality, experimentation, and spirituality. It is also known as the color of creativity and non-conformity; just ask Prince, Jimi Hendrix, or David Bowie. According to Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of Pantone, ultra violet is linked to the “vast and limitless night sky, symbolic of what is possible and continues to inspire the desire to pursue a world beyond our own”.
Wherever you find yourself in the new year, let ultra violet inspire new connections, creativity, and a sense of optimism for the future. In the meantime, check out our “Catwalk Trend Report” featuring fashion’s coolest interpretations of ultra violet.
Diane von Furstenberg – Printed Silk Maxi Dress – Purple • Diane von Furstenberg • $1,000
Urban Outfitters Brushed Woven Blanket Scarf • Urban Outfitters • $19
S’well Ultraviolet Stainless Steel Water Bottle 17 oz. • Swell • $42
Balenciaga Knife stretch-jersey ankle boots • Balenciaga • $1,190
Ray-Ban The Ja-Jo Round Sunglasses • Ray-Ban • $158–168
Manic Panic NYC Classic Semi Permanent Hair Color Cream – Ultra Violet • $19.50
Free People Chamomile Knit Cardigan • Free People • $59.97
Acne Studios Women’s Albah Striped Mohair-Blend Sweater • Acne Studios • $430
MARNI Knee-length dresses • Marni • $408
GG Marmont small shoulder bag • Gucci • $1,980
NYX Professional Makeup Cosmic Metals Lip Cream • NYX • $7.49
Marchesa Notte embellished pleated waist gown • Marchesa • $796
