Recently, Pantone announced ‘Viva Magenta’ as their colour of the year for 2023. The company describes the shade as one that writes a ‘new narrative […] encouraging experimentation and self-expression without restraint’. With its electrifying and unapologetic nature, it’s no wonder the ‘Magentaverse’ has been chosen to inspire a new chapter for the world. However, for those looking to welcome some Viva Magenta into their lives, it’s potentially a little hard to style. Unsure where to start? Our comprehensive How to Wear Pantone’s Colour of the Year 2023 guide is here to help.
History of the Pantone Colour of the Year
Since 2000, Pantone has declared a ‘colour of the year’ at the start of every new year. Originally, the intention of this was to highlight how intertwined colour is in popular and contemporary culture. A lot of the time it’s interconnected with the Zeitgeist, or the ‘world spirit’, of the time. For instance, Honeysuckle was chosen in 2011 to boost morale in a globally challenging time. However, perhaps ironically, the colour of the year choice has come to influence more and more of the culture surrounding it.
Every year, a secret committee of Pantone professionals scour the industry for influences for the following year’s contenders. This involves intensive colour trend forecasting, as well as a macro-analysis of all types of media, arts, materials, and current trends. In fact, according to Pantone, there really is no limit as to what can influence the colour of the year choice.
The significance of 2023’s Viva Magenta
As the world recovers from a challenging period, Viva Magenta was selected to promote a ‘new signal of strength’. Executive director Leatrice Eiseman described how the choice was inspired by nature, particularly the red of cochineal dyes. Amongst the most precious and potent natural dyes, the association with cochineal red was intended to reflect this ‘strength’.
Finding this strength and motivation in nature was also significant to the choice according to Eiseman. Through its natural associations, Viva Magenta was chosen to help us find inner force by inducing the power of nature. Nowadays, this is particularly important given our growing dependence on technology.
Overall, in addition to the idea of finding strength, Viva Magenta marks a celebration of the world’s new chapter. In contrast to the cooler tones of previous years, its upbeat and warm tone is bound to lift spirits. For more detail, you can watch Pantone’s full announcement here.
How to Wear Pantone’s Colour of the Year 2023
As a colour that cannot be tamed, finding magenta accessories to complement your wardrobe can be a challenge. However, the beauty of this particular shade is that, unlike most typical magentas, it’s more red-toned than pink. As a result, there are plenty of unisex pieces of this hue on the market too.
Whether you want to go all out or only introduce it incrementally, here are our favourite Viva Magenta-inspired pieces.
1. As a statement timepiece
If you’re wanting to make a statement that can’t be ignored, the best and most practical way to incorporate Viva Magenta into your everyday wear is your watch. There are so many options on the market today for fearlessly magenta watches, but here are some of our current favourites for every budget.
Festina Ladies Rose-pltd. Watch W/CZ Set & Steel Bracelet F20602/2
First up is this Festina Ladies model. The Viva Magenta-toned dial sits in a round, rose gold stainless steel case and bracelet. Although the dial colour is definitely the statement of the timepiece, no attention to detail is spared. The hour markers are crystal set with both white and warm gold stones. A delicate and dainty model, this Festina is the perfect sleek statement piece.
MeisterSinger Pangaea Day Date New Red/Black Dial Black Leather Strap PDD902R
The MeisterSinger Pangaea Day Date oozes opulence. The jet black dial is contrasted beautifully with two Viva Magenta-esque coloured rings, making this a very visually impressive piece. The two magenta rings display the date and the weekday, with a small red arrow pointing to the current date and day. At midnight, these align instantaneously, despite both rings moving in different directions. Both stunning and slim, the Pangaea’s case measures 40mm in diameter and just 10.5mm in profile, making it perfect for easy everyday wear.
RADO True Secret Unisex Red Diamond Set Dial R27107742
This RADO model is perfect for fans of window dials. The True Secret pairs an otherwise minimalist red-toned magenta dial offers a peak into the watch’s inner workings. Finished with diamond-set indices, such a combination of interesting elements is bound to make both you and your watch stand out. More than just a pretty (watch) face, RADO models are notoriously high quality. Anti-reflective sapphire crystal glass encases the dial, which is paired with the brand’s iconic high-tech ceramic and titanium bracelet.
2. As a subtler timepiece detail
It may be that you struggle to commit to strong colours, and lean more towards the understated with your accessories. There’s no need to go all-out with the magenta if this isn’t to your taste. In fact, it only opens up more viable options! Here are some subtler timepieces to give you a little pop of magenta without compromising your everyday style.
Swatch Original Lady Casual Blue Watch LK396
Perhaps an unexpected contender on our list, this blue Swatch piece has more to it than meets the eye. The Swatch Solar Spectrum glass gives an iridescent finish to the dial, which appears magenta in certain lights. Playful and fun, this would be great for those who struggle to commit to bold colours with their wristwear.
Coach Women’s Perry White Dial Pink Flowers Rose Gold Steel Mesh Bracelet 14504101
Another ideal option for those wanting only a small pop of magenta is this recent Coach Perry model. The cream dial is adorned with adorable magenta flower-shaped indices, which are sure to brighten up even the darkest of days. The magenta detailing is coupled with a rose gold steel bracelet, which makes the watch easily pairable to any look.
3. As a statement crystal piece
Statement jewellery can sometimes be a more effortless way to unify your style with a particular colour. Or, even better, it can be used in combination with a statement wristwatch to create a stronger, more cohesive look. For however you choose to wear your statement jewellery, here are a few magenta-toned options to inspire you.
LM 18ct White Gold Ruby Halo Diamond Pendant And Chain 0.70ct Total SP4887
Wanting an elegant magenta accessory to be the centre-most focus of your look? You’ll be turning heads with this gorgeous teardrop pendant necklace. Rubies are renowned for their timeless and bold beauty, making this necklace the perfect contender for our list. A pear-cut ruby sits in a three-pronged setting in the pedant, framed by a halo of dazzling white diamonds. The chain itself is made from 18-carat white gold, ensuring excellent longevity.
Swarovski Chroma Drop Earrings Gold-Tone Plated Green and Pink Crystals 5651294
Not for the faint-hearted, these stunning Swarovski drop earrings will steal the show. Dropping from an octagonal green stone stud is a green teardrop stone enclosed by a larger, octagonal magenta stone. Set onto a gold-tone plated backing, these are a great example of how magenta can coexist alongside other colours without being overbearing. A majestic accompaniment to your outfit for any occasion.
4. As a soft detail in an everyday piece
Of course, it doesn’t have to be all or nothing when introducing Viva Magenta to your look. As described above and contrary to popular opinion, magenta coexists well with other complementary colours. This is particularly true when it’s introduced in even smaller doses. Whether you are looking to give a magenta jewellery piece to a loved one, or just would rather start small, here are some more minute options.
Nomination Classic Heart Red CZ Crystals Link Steel & Bonded Rose Gold 430311/01
This Nomination charm is a more everyday and low-stakes way to commemorate 2023’s colour of the year without risking any clashes. Set with red cubic zirconia gemstones with a rose gold heart outline, this would make a great gift for any occasion this year.
James Moore 18c White Gold Diamond Ruby Ring JM9844
For something more indulgent, we recommend this James Moore ruby and diamond ring. Sitting between two round-cut white diamonds is an opulent magenta ruby, which truly arrests the eye. Crafted from luxurious 18-carat white gold, this would be the ultimate gift for a special someone this year.
And that concludes our guide on How to Wear Pantone’s Colour of the Year 2023! Will you be sprucing up your life with some Vivid Magenta this year? Let us know!
