Radiant Orchid for 2014: Pantone Color Institute Has Spoken

The Pantone Color Institute has spoken: 2014’s color is Radiant Orchid 18-3224.

Described by Pantone Color Institute’s executive director as “an enchanting harmony of fuchsia, purple, and pink undertones,” this color doesn’t quite stand out like last year’s Emerald Green 17-5641. Instead, it adds a bit of subtle cheer wherever it is found. Decorators and fashionistas who need to stay conservative, but want to jazz things up a bit, can make great use of Radiant Orchid.

 

How to Use Radiant Orchid at Home

If you really like Radiant Orchid and want to use it in a big way, use it on one wall in a sunny room. If you aren’t up to painting, consider an orchid sofa along with a neutral hardwood or glass coffee table.

On the other hand, if you like the color, but don’t want a major commitment, select some smaller accent pieces, such as candles, throw pillows, or even fresh orchids in a gorgeous container. The nifty thing about this color is that while it’s definitely fresh, it can work throughout the year.

 

Wearing Radiant Orchid

Radiant Orchid flatters most skin tones, so you can wear it in dozens of ways:

• As eyeshadow, lip gloss and nail polish
• Ties
• Hats and hair accessories
• Scarves
• Jewelry
• Tops, blouses, skirts and dresses
• Umbrellas
• Handbags
• Try a few streaks in your hair!

How much Radiant Orchid is appropriate? Depends on the situation, your coloring, and your style. If you aren’t comfortable wearing purple, try something small: A pair of earrings, a necklace or a tie. Willing to go bolder? Try a purse, or switch up your eyeliner or eyeshadow: This shade can really make blue eyes pop.

 

Eyewear Options

Another option is to swap out your regular eyeglass or sunglass frames for something in the Radiant Orchid scheme. Here are some options:

Frame #797517 is an oval shaped frame that looks decidedly hip without being over the top. 

 

Rimless glasses, such as #3990, flatter most face shapes and have the advantage of helping you to see while also keeping your face free of distractions. The beautiful temples add just a touch of color to your look.

Half-frame glasses, such as #650717, are great for balancing heart-shaped faces.

 

If you are a conservative type, try this classic frame. Straight on, you see subtle purple frames around the eyes, but #256217 has a trick up its sleeve: The temples feature an intriguing pattern in many shades of purple.