Going Radiant Orchid: How to use 2014’s color of the year

Roses are red, violets are blue… and orchids? This year, they stand out brightly in what Pantone describes as “a captivating harmony of fuchsia, purple and pink undertones.”

In its official release of Radiant Orchid as 2014's color of the year, the international authority on color said that the luscious hue “blooms with confidence and magical warmth that intrigues the eye and sparks the imagination. It is an expressive, creative and embracing purple—one that draws you in with its beguiling charm.”

This year’s color is the perfect excuse to channel the creative in you and inject some excitement into your everyday life—from wardrobe to gadgets to home interiors and even lunch items.

A more wearable color

When it comes to apparel, orchid and its many variants are not the most popular color choices. However, the mysterious team behind local color-themed boutique Roy & Biv say they find that “most people who have purple as their favorite color are often creative, imaginative, individualistic and original.”

This particular shade of purple is one that will surely set you apart from the rest. It’s adventurous, but not so much so that you won’t be able to try it out.

“It matches everyone’s skin tone, and it’s not super striking like the other colors,” said Megan, a Fashion Design graduate. “I love Radiant Orchid, even though it's not that radiant.”

Indeed, Radiant Orchid is much friendlier to most skin tones than, say, last year’s Emerald Green. It’s especially good for make-up because its reddish undertones really work well with everything from blush-on to lip gloss and even mascara.

“As Orchid leans more towards red than blue, it makes for a great combination with denim. Ballet flats, belts, bandanas or tops in Radiant Orchid will make good pairings with jeans. Don’t shy away from orchid as it evokes sophistication. Try it out and see what magic a purple top will create,” said Team Roy & Biv.

Touches of color

If you can’t take the color in full bloom, try just adding a dash of it here and there. Nails and accessories are always good ways to go when it comes to making a statement with color. Go for gem pendants, studs or a classic bold-hued mani-pedi. A scarf or a pair of sunglasses in that hue can spruce up basic, everyday office or casual attire

If you don’t want to wear Radiant Orchid, there are other ways to make sure you get your dose of this floral hue. The team behind Roy & Biv suggest actual orchids.

"A nice vibrant Phalaenopsis or dendrobium or purple tones in a white glazed pot or planter will add that happy pop of color to a drab work or living space," they said.

Another suggestion is having an accent wall in Radiant Orchid, using paint or wallpaper. "This will serve as an attractive background to neutral-colored furniture and wall décor,” they said,  pointing out that having throw pillows, vases, picture frames or lamps in the color can make shelves, tables and other furniture “take on a new vibe.”

"Yung orchid, it’s calm…ang pleasing niyang tignan sa mata," said Megan.

Little bursts of color

Of course, painting a whole wall, reupholstering the furniture or updating your wardrobe can be a bit heavy on the pocket, and may not be for everyone. The good news is you can embrace the color of the year without hurting your budget.

This is where the little knick-knacks come in. From purple sticky notes and paper clips to violet-ink pens and orchid-print cellphone cases, there are many ways to inject the color into your every day.

After all, what better way to show off your unique style than with a unique color like Pantone 18-3224?

Megan declared that Radiant Orchid will look good on anything, from clothes to gadgets to furniture.

"Everything except...” She considered what might not work with this pretty shade, but nothing came to mind. “Nope, nope... everything! I like it on everything—and my favorite color is yellow." — BM, GMA News