## Une Couleurs Que Sera Une Tendance 2018: A Deep Dive into the Pantone Color of the Year and Beyond
The year 2018, while now a memory, offers valuable insights into the ever-evolving world of *color trends*. Understanding the dominant hues of a particular year helps us comprehend the cultural, social, and even economic currents influencing design and aesthetics. While Pantone's *Color of the Year* announcement often steals the spotlight, a broader look reveals a rich tapestry of *shades and palettes* that resonated throughout the year. This exploration dives into the *color trends* of 2018, examining the reasons behind their popularity and their lasting impact on design.
Part 1: Ultra Violet – Pantone's Reigning Hue
2018 saw Pantone declare *Ultra Violet* (Pantone 18-3838), a deep, complex purple, as its *Color of the Year*. This wasn't a whimsical choice; Pantone carefully considered the global climate and cultural shifts when making its selection. The description accompanying the announcement emphasized *Ultra Violet*'s connection to *contemplation*, *originality*, and *inventiveness*. It was seen as a color representing *counter-culture*, *individuality*, and a yearning for *meaningful expression* in a rapidly changing world.
The impact of *Ultra Violet* was widespread. We saw it permeate various design fields:
* Fashion: From runway shows to high-street collections, *Ultra Violet* appeared in a multitude of garments, accessories, and footwear. Designers used it to create both bold, statement pieces and subtle, sophisticated accents. The versatility of the shade allowed for its incorporation into various styles, from bohemian to minimalist.
* Interior Design: *Ultra Violet* brought a sense of luxury and mystique to interior spaces. It was used as an accent color in upholstery, wall art, and decorative objects, adding a touch of *sophistication* and *drama*. Paired with complementary neutrals like cream and grey, it offered a calming yet captivating ambiance.
* Graphic Design and Branding: The color's *versatility* made it a popular choice for logos, branding materials, and website design. It conveyed a sense of *innovation* and *creativity*, aligning well with technology companies and brands focused on forward-thinking products and services.
However, *Ultra Violet*'s dominance wasn't without its challenges. Its intensity required careful consideration in application. Overuse could be overwhelming, highlighting the need for *balance* and thoughtful integration within a design.
Part 2: Beyond Ultra Violet: Complementary and Contrasting Hues
While *Ultra Violet* held center stage, other colors played significant roles in shaping the aesthetic landscape of 2018. These colors often complemented or contrasted with *Ultra Violet*, creating dynamic and engaging palettes.
* Earthy Tones: *Warm browns*, *muted greens*, and *subtle beiges* provided a grounding counterpoint to the vibrancy of *Ultra Violet*. This combination reflected a growing appreciation for *natural elements* and a desire for *tranquility* in an increasingly fast-paced world. These earthy tones were particularly prominent in interior design and fashion, offering a sense of *comfort* and *stability*.
* Rose Quartz and Serenity's Lingering Influence: Although Pantone's *Color of the Year* for 2016 was a different palette, the soft pink of *Rose Quartz* and the tranquil blue of *Serenity* continued to hold relevance. These *gentle hues* appeared alongside *Ultra Violet*, creating a sense of *balance* and *harmony*. They added a softer touch, preventing the bolder shades from feeling too overpowering.
* Metallic Accents: *Metallic finishes*, such as gold, copper, and rose gold, added a touch of *glamour* and *luxury* to designs. They often served to highlight *Ultra Violet* or the earthy tones, adding a layer of *sophistication* and *shine*.
* Deep Greens and Blues: These *rich, saturated colors* also contributed to the year's palette. *Deep greens* evoked feelings of *nature* and *growth*, while *deep blues* conveyed a sense of *calmness* and *stability*. They offered a different type of contrast to *Ultra Violet*, showcasing a wider range of *emotional responses*.
Part 3: The Cultural Significance of 2018's Color Palette
The color trends of 2018 weren't simply aesthetic choices; they reflected broader cultural and social movements. The popularity of *Ultra Violet*, with its association with *innovation* and *contemplation*, mirrored a global need for *meaningful progress* and *introspection*. The prevalence of earthy tones suggested a growing appreciation for *sustainability* and a connection to the *natural world*.
The combination of bold and calming shades speaks to a complex emotional landscape. The world felt both exciting and uncertain, leading to a desire for designs that offer both vibrancy and solace. This *tension* between *bold innovation* and *gentle grounding* is perfectly captured in the palette's range of hues.
Part 4: Lasting Impact and Contemporary Relevance
While 2018 has passed, the *color trends* of that year continue to influence design today. The emphasis on *versatility* and *balance* remains relevant. *Ultra Violet*'s legacy can be seen in subtle ways—its influence continues to inspire designers seeking to balance vibrant expressions with calming sophistication. Similarly, the integration of *earthy tones* and *metallic accents* remains popular in contemporary design, reflecting our ongoing desire for *sustainable elegance* and a touch of *modern luxury*.
In conclusion, *Une Couleurs que sera une tendance 2018* was much more than just a single dominant shade. It was a compelling and multifaceted spectrum of colors, each contributing to a unique visual narrative reflecting the complex social and cultural climate of its time. Understanding these trends helps us appreciate the interplay between color, culture, and design, providing valuable insights for creating impactful and relevant work today and into the future. The legacy of *2018's color palette* lies not just in its individual hues but also in its ability to capture and reflect the spirit of an era.
