2023 Color of the Year

Recently Good Circle Marketing consultants wrote two truths and a lie for their respective areas of expertise. We’ll leave that for another post. In conjunction with the two truths, they also wrote three trends they see. For design, our lead graphic consultant Rich wrote that we would see an increase in the use of bold, vibrant colors.


Not surprisingly, when Pantone announced their “Color of the Year for 2023,” it was a bold color – Viva Magenta.

Here is what Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute, had to say:

“In this age of technology, we look to draw inspiration from nature and what is real. PANTONE 18-1750 Viva Magenta descends from the red family; and is inspired by the red of cochineal, one of the most precious dyes belonging to the natural dye family as well as one of the strongest and brightest the world has known.

Rooted in the primordial, PANTONE 18-1750 Viva Magenta reconnects us to the original matter. Invoking the forces of nature, PANTONE 18-1750 Viva Magenta galvanizes our spirit, helping us to build our inner strength.”

As we continue to move on from the pandemic, we’re looking for ways to be alive, to be more brave and fearless. We’re striving for more authenticity and using our voices to express strength and empowerment. Viva Magenta embodies that joyous and optimistic spirit and invites everyone to join the celebration.

The Meaning behind Colors: Color Psychology

Reds are power colors. Especially bold reds. They exude rebellion, fierce grace, confidence, and humanity. There is a boldness that just makes us smile and want to have fun. The color originates from the cochineal beetle, an insect that produces carmine dye. This natural color connects us to nature and primordial strength.

cochineal beetle
Cochineal Beetle

Experience the Magentaverse!

Today’s consumers spend a whole lot of time looking at digital screens with neutral colors and backgrounds. Designers can use bold colors – especially reds – to cut through the clutter to engage the reader more. Bold reds draw the eye and overpower other colors surrounding them. 

If you want to stand out or maybe just do something a little different, go big red! 

Pantone
Pantone