Colors of 2014, Radiant Orchid and Exclusive Plum

It is that time of year again. The Powers That Be announce their Color of the Year for 2014. They're really not choosing a color. There's no sex appeal in a press release that says over the past two years we've seen an uptick in the use of the purple family in various industries targeting the consumer as end user. Annointing a color has so much more cachet.

Pantone's choice always hogs the spotlight. Radiant Orchid reigns for 2014.

Hold on a minute. Those are the orchids I just put in my Doctors' Office project (couldn't resist, sorry).

Here she is, Radiant Orchid, Pantone's new It color for 2014.

"An enchanting harmony of fuchsia, purple and pink undertones, Radiant Orchid inspires confidence and emanates great joy, love and health. It is a captivating purple, one that draws you in with its beguiling charm." Leatrice Eiseman, Pantone's Executive Director.

Look for Radiant Orchid in accessories for the home, cosmetics and fashion. The pink undertones will complement many skin tones. In the house it will look great with greens and grays.

I didn't predict orchid, but I did write about the proliferation of purples I saw in August at the NYNOW Show.

Paint giant Sherwin-Williams is also feeling the purple with its pick for 2014, Exclusive Plum.

"This dusky, filtered violet is refined without being stuffy, elegant yet easy, and layered with romantic potential." Jackie Jordan, Sherwin-Williams Director of Color Marketing

Exclusive Plum with electric chartreuse and oranges have a decidedly contemporary effect.

Pair with natural tones for understated elegance. No one does elegance better than de Gournay.

I love this.

Just last week I received Anna French's new fabric collection, Rue De Seine. Embroidered linens with springtime flowers and verdant foliage. Plaids, velvets and appliques round out this lovely collection inspired by springtime in Paris.

Twiggy Floral Embroidery on Natural linen (photo by me)

Twiggy Floral shown with Laurence Plaid in Flax and Plum (photo by me)

curtains in Twiggy Floral in White, chairs in Jack Sack linen, Zippidy Embroidery pillows
photo via Anna French, a division of Thibaut

What's your take on purples? Would you use or wear Radiant Orchid and Exclusive Plum? Paint the walls? How about a sofa or chair?

Thanks for reading,
Linda Pakravan

if you'd like design help or more info on the Anna French fabrics, please email me!

This post was not sponsored by any of the products or companies mentioned.