Trending Colors in 2018: A Kaleidoscope of Inspiration
The world of design is always evolving, and one of the most exciting aspects to watch is the shift in color trends. As we bid farewell to 2017, let's delve into the popular colors that dominated the design sphere in 2018, offering a vibrant mix of inspiration for your upcoming projects.
Pantone's Color of the Year: Ultra Violet
Pantone, the global authority on color, kicked off 2018 by announcing Ultra Violet (PANTONE 18-3838) as its Color of the Year. This bold, provocative, and thoughtful shade of purple communicates originality, ingenuity, and visionary thinking, reflecting the world's changing landscape and our collective desire for a more inclusive future.
Neon Brights: A Retro Revival
In 2018, we witnessed a resurgence of neon colors, harking back to the vibrant hues of the '80s and '90s. These electric shades, such as neon pink, green, and yellow, added a playful, energetic touch to various design elements, from fashion and interior design to graphic design and branding.
Neon Color Palette
- Neon Pink (HEX: #FF69B4)
- Neon Green (HEX: #39FF14)
- Neon Yellow (HEX: #FFD700)
- Neon Blue (HEX: #00FFFF)
Earth Tones: A Return to Nature
At the other end of the spectrum, earthy tones made a strong comeback in 2018, offering a calming, organic alternative to the digital age's relentless stimulation. Rich, warm hues like terracotta, mustard, and deep greens evoked a sense of tranquility and connection to the natural world.
Earth Tone Palette
- Terracotta (HEX: #E37358)
- Mustard (HEX: #FFDB58)
- Deep Green (HEX: #228B22)
- Burnt Orange (HEX: #FF7F00)
Dark and Moody: The New Neutrals
In 2018, we saw a shift away from traditional neutrals like beige and gray, with designers embracing darker, moodier shades instead. Deep blues, charcoals, and even black made their mark as the new neutrals, creating striking, sophisticated palettes that added depth and drama to various design applications.
Dark Neutral Palette
| Color | HEX Code |
|---|---|
| Deep Blue | #00008B |
| Charcoal | #36454F |
| Black | #000000 |
Metallics: Adding a Touch of Glamour
Metallic accents continued to shine in 2018, with designers incorporating gold, copper, and rose gold into their color schemes. These lustrous hues added a touch of glamour and sophistication, whether used sparingly as accent colors or boldly as statement pieces.
Metallic Palette
- Gold (HEX: #CD7F32)
- Copper (HEX: #B87333)
- Rose Gold (HEX: #B76E79)
As we move forward into 2019 and beyond, it's clear that the world of color is as vibrant and diverse as ever. By embracing these popular colors from 2018 and staying attuned to the ever-evolving design landscape, you'll be well-equipped to create stunning, on-trend projects that captivate and inspire.
