by Niamh ODonoghue
12th Dec 2017
12th Dec 2017
Admittedly, the last time I wore purple (other than with a pair of sweats while hoovering the house), was probably sometime pre-2015, but following the announcement by Pantone this week of their new colour of the year, it seems that my friendship with purple will reignite far sooner than I expected.
‘Ultraviolet’ has been chosen as 2018’s colour of the year and is bright and uplifting in contrast to last year’s cool and peaceful ‘greenery’. According to Pantone, the “dramatically provocative and thoughtful purple shade communicates originality, ingenuity, and visionary thinking that points us toward the future.
Historically, there has been a mystical or spiritual quality attached to Ultraviolet. The colour is often associated with mindfulness practices, which offer a higher ground to those seeking refuge from today’s over-stimulated world. The use of purple-toned lighting in meditation spaces and other gathering places energizes the communities that gather there and inspires connection.
When it comes to our wardrobes, the shade has already made a significant cultural impact. Refinery29 gently reminds us of the time that Hilary Clinton wore a purple-accented Ralph Lauren trouser suit when she conceded defeat to Donald Trump in November 2016. Or how about Prince’s iconic image and music which has been intrinsically linked to the colour purple over the last few decades. Indeed the colour has funnelled over time through our favourite catwalks as seen below at Area, Kenzo and Caroline Herrera.
Left-right; Area, Kenzo, Caroline Herrera. All SS18
If wearing a colour can instil hope and discovery through uncertain times then I’m excited to give it a go. Here are 8 clever ways to introduce this striking shade of purple into your wardrobe.
These glitter-effect skinny trousers by Golden Goose Deluxe Brand, €199 at farfetch.com
Glitter-effect skinny trousers by Golden Goose Deluxe Brand, €199 at farfetch.com
These chandelier-effect tassel earrings, €12.95 at Mango.com
Tassel earrings, €12.95 at Mango.com
This printed satin-jacquard midi dress by Marni, €1,290 at netaporter.com
Printed satin-jacquard midi dress by Marni, €1,290 at netaporter.com
A pair of these otherworldly patent ankle boots, €117 at Topshop.com
Harp patent ankle boots, €117 at Topshop.com
This easy-to-wear violet jumper, €12.95 at Zara.com
Sweater with draped sleeves, €12.95 at Zara.com
This sweet and pretty velvet dress, €250.45 at Sandro Paris
Velvet dress with ruffles, €250.45 at Sandro Paris
This padded down puffa, €125 at & Other Stories
Padded down puffa, €125 at & Other Stories
This dainty purple Carmen velvet clutch bag with hand embellishment by Benedetta Bruzziches, €400.40 at brownsfashion.com
Purple Carmen velvet clutch bag with hand embellishment by Benedetta Bruzziches, €400.40 at brownsfashion.com