You’ve waited breathlessly for the announcement, and today it came. Pantone, the gold (no pun intended) standard for color in many industries, has announced its Color of the Year for 2014. Like it or not, Radiant Orchid probably will be seen a lot in fashion, beauty, home design and consumer products over the next twelve months.

Personally, although I’m fond of purples, I generally prefer the deep jewel and plum tones. This lighter shade works for me in certain places though. I don’t wear it much because I feel like it’s too stereotypically “grandmother,” but I decorate with it. Bath towels and rugs. Bedroom accents.

I’ve not been crazy about Pantone’s recent past choices, from 2013 to 2008 respectively:

Of these, Honeysuckle is probably my favorite. Normally I’d opt for any teal or turquoise, but I don’t care for this one…