As designers, colors are one of the main elements to our designs. We choose them carefully and methodically and do our best to match the colors we choose to the emotional direction we are trying to achieve. We sit down at our computers, notepads, and sketchbooks and go through the colors of the rainbow in every possible hue and vibrancy we can think of. We flip through color swatches, scroll through articles and books and peruse the internet and social media in the pursuit for inspiration.
Today, we are designing in the era of brighter is better. From bold, deeply saturated hues, to punchy pastels. Colors are key. Designers are taking 80’s eye-catching technicolor, tropical palettes, and color transitions into the full swing.
Think of it as everything old being new again. Designers are straying away from the safety of their “go-to” color palettes and leaning towards something risky that will make an impact and lasting impression on the viewer.
When Pantone announced a range of new color selections in the PANTONE Fashion Color Trend Report Spring 2018, they were trying to match the consumers desire for brighter, bolder colors, and the delivered. Colors such as Cherry Tomato, Tumeric, and Lime Punch were among the spread in their playful color palette.
All packed a punch, but none quite stood up to the PANTONE Color of The Year 2018, Ultra Violet. Pantone describes Ultra Violet as a “provocative and thoughtful purple shade” that embodies individuality and spirituality. Laurie Pressman, vice-president of the Pantone Colour Institute, said, “The Pantone color of the year has come to mean so much more than ‘what’s trending’ in the world of design; it’s truly a reflection of what’s needed in our world today.”
Pantone hopes the blue and red colors used to designate America’s liberal and conservative politics, can become a more harmonious purple. “It’s also the most complex of all colors because it takes two shades that are seemingly diametrically opposed – blue and red – and brings them together to create something new,” added Leatrice Eiseman, Pantone’s executive director.
This vibrant, joyous color trend continues into 2019 with the feel of the Spring/Summer 2019 collection. With an emphasis on colors that are happy, uplifting feel-good tones, colors like Fiesta Red and Aspen Gold are among the selection. Colors that uplift your spirits and send positive vibes your way.
One of the most versatile colors in 2018 that designers are gravitating to may or may not be a surprise to you. It’s not an electric blue or deep wine red, which to some, would appeal to the masses. The color you probably are not thinking of is pink.
The favored color evolved from poppy bubblegum hues to shades of peach, rose, blush, and violet. The popularity of this once so-called feminine color continues to rise with no end in sight. What is now being seen everywhere from Spotify to restaurant ads is the Millenial Pink. It’s basically a toned-down version of Barbie Pink. This subtle shift in hue makes this shade a new neutral.
While designers are still being cautious and aware of their brand and target audience, are becoming bolder and looking to stand out amongst the crowd.
You want your designs to stand out and have a lasting impression on viewers, just make sure they are for the right reasons. You want to be remembered for your design, not for your bad choice in color combinations.
