"Radiant Orchid," a purple hue that blends fuchsia, purple and pink undertones, is Pantone's 2014 Color of the Year, the color institute announced Thursday.
"Radiant Orchid reaches across the color wheel to intrigue the eye and spark the imagination. An invitation to innovation, Radiant Orchid encourages expanded creativity and originality, which is increasingly valued in today's society," says Leatrice Eiseman, executive director at Pantone.
The new shade replaces "Emerald," Pantone's 2013 Color of the Year, which served as a symbol of growth, renewal and prosperity, Eiseman says.
To select the color of the year, Pantone looks at color influences in entertainment, film and traveling art collections as well as among artists, at popular travel destinations and the socio-economic conditions.
Ultimately, Pantone says, its color of the year influences product development and purchasing decisions in multiple industries, including fashion, home and industrial design, and in product packaging and graphic design.