The world of design, fashion, and interiors often reflects the cultural, emotional, and psychological currents of the times. In 2022, color played a pivotal role in shaping visual identity across industries, from runways to home decor. While many speculated about what the color trend for 2022 would be during uncertain global transitions, one dominant hue emerged to capture the spirit of renewal and optimism: Very Peri (Pantone 17-3938). This vibrant periwinkle blue with a red-violet undertone was not just a color—it was a statement. In this article, we’ll explore the significance of Very Peri, its influence across various sectors, supporting palettes, and why this particular shade defined the aesthetics of 2022.
The Official Color of the Year: Pantone’s Very Peri
Every year, the Pantone Color Institute selects a Color of the Year that encapsulates the global mood and serves as a design beacon for the coming months. For 2022, Pantone broke tradition by introducing a new color to its system specifically for this honor—Very Peri.
Why Very Peri Was Chosen
The selection of Very Peri wasn’t arbitrary. According to the Pantone Color Institute, the shade was inspired by the transformative mood of the era. As the world began emerging from prolonged periods of isolation and uncertainty, people were increasingly seeking innovation, creativity, and a sense of new beginnings.
Very Peri symbolizes a blend of the dependable and the daring—its blue base represents trust, calm, and stability, while the red-violet infusion introduces energy, dynamism, and creativity. This duality speaks to the hybrid lifestyle many embraced in 2022: balancing remote work with social reconnection, digital engagement with real-world experiences, and tradition with reinvention.
The Birth of a New Hue
Unlike past Color of the Year selections, which often pulled from existing Pantone palettes, Very Peri was developed in response to changing artistic and cultural expressions, particularly the rise of digital art and the metaverse. Pantone noted that the evolving global landscape, especially in technology and youth-driven culture, prompted the creation of a color that didn’t exist before.
This innovation included studying color trends in street art, fashion design, and digital animation. The result was a hue that feels simultaneously futuristic and comforting—a color of possibility.
Very Peri in Fashion: A Runway Revolution
As soon as Pantone unveiled Very Peri, fashion houses began incorporating the color into their 2022 seasonal collections. It wasn’t limited to high fashion; mainstream brands and fast fashion retailers alike adopted the tone to stay on-trend.
Notable Fashion Appearances
Major fashion weeks in New York, Milan, Paris, and London featured Very Peri in striking and diverse applications:
- Calvin Klein: Introduced minimalist silhouettes in deep and soft permutations of Very Peri, emphasizing its versatility.
- Tom Ford: Featured bold eveningwear in shimmering Very Peri fabrics, blending luxury with avant-garde energy.
- Stella McCartney: Used eco-friendly fabrics dyed in Very Peri to promote sustainability through vibrant style.
Streetwear and Accessories
The color quickly moved from catwalks to city sidewalks. Sneakers by Nike and Adidas released limited editions in Very Peri tones. Handbags, watches, and jewelry followed suit, with metallic finishes enhancing its modern appeal. The hue became a favorite for Gen Z and millennial consumers, symbolizing individuality and digital optimism.
Interior Design and Home Aesthetics: Bringing Very Peri Indoors
Homeowners and interior designers embraced Very Peri not as a singular accent, but as a mood-setting tone for living spaces. It became a popular choice for feature walls, upholstery, and decorative accessories.
Living Rooms and Bedrooms
In residential interiors, Very Peri was celebrated for its calming yet energizing effect. Unlike cold blues or overly stimulating reds, Very Peri strikes a balance, making it ideal for areas intended for rest and creativity.
Designers paired Very Peri with neutral tones such as:
| Neutral Tone | Effect with Very Peri |
|---|---|
| Soft Beige | Creates warmth and grounding contrast |
| White with gray undertones | Enhances clarity and freshness |
| Charcoal Gray | Adds drama and sophistication |
Kitchens and Bathrooms
Cabinetry, tiles, and fixtures in Very Peri became signature upgrades. In kitchens, the color brought a sense of modern sophistication, especially when combined with matte black hardware or brass fixtures. Bathrooms saw an uptick in Very Peri vanities and shower tiles, offering a spa-like yet contemporary feel.
Commercial and Office Spaces
Even office designers took note. Very Peri was introduced to co-working spaces and creative agencies as a way to stimulate imagination and collaboration. Studies suggest that soft blue tones improve concentration, while the subtle warmth of Very Peri’s red undertone can boost emotional well-being.
Graphic Design, Digital Media, and Branding
The digital landscape was one of the most receptive areas to Very Peri. With its roots inspired by digital innovation, the color quickly became popular in web design, social media branding, and animation.
Website and App Interfaces
Tech companies and startups adopted Very Peri for call-to-action buttons, banners, and user interface elements. The hue’s high visibility without overwhelming brightness made it ideal for user engagement.
Example platforms using Very Peri in 2022:
- Social media filters and templates on Instagram and TikTok
- Brand refreshes for lifestyle apps like Calm and Notion
- Product launches by tech manufacturers (e.g., special edition phones and laptops)
Logo and Rebranding Trends
Several brands underwent rebranding in 2022, using Very Peri to signal a shift toward modernity and inclusivity. The color was deemed gender-neutral and youth-friendly, making it a strategic choice for evolving corporate identities.
Supporting Color Trends of 2022
While Very Peri stood at the forefront, it was not alone. The Pantone Color Institute and major design agencies identified a broader palette that complemented the main trend and reflected the collective spirit of the year.
Complementary and Accent Hues
Designers used color pairing and schemes that included:
- Fiery Fuchsia: A bold pink-purple hue that added pop and passion.
- Green Sheen: An emerald-like shade symbolizing growth and environmental awareness.
- Skydiver Blue: A deeper blue providing contrast and elegance.
- Buttercream: A warm neutral used to soften the intensity of Very Peri.
Tonal Harmony in Design Palettes
Effective use of Very Peri often involved a harmonious blend with surrounding colors. The most popular schemes in 2022 included:
- Analogous Scheme: Very Peri with blue and violet neighbors on the color wheel for a calm, cohesive look.
- Triadic Scheme: Paired with yellow-greens and coral tones for vibrant, youth-driven energy.
- Monochromatic Use: Different tints and shades of Very Peri to create depth and visual interest without clash.
Psychology of the Color Trend: Why It Resonated
Color psychology played a vital role in the popularity of Very Peri. Throughout history, specific hues have helped societies navigate emotional climates. In 2022, Very Peri provided a collective sense of hope and adaptability.
Emotional and Mental Well-Being
Blue tones are scientifically known to reduce stress and lower heart rate. By adding warmth through red-violet, Very Peri avoided the coldness often associated with traditional blues, creating a more emotionally balanced hue. This made it ideal for environments focused on mental wellness—from therapy offices to meditation apps.
Cultural Impact and Identity
In 2022, self-expression and digital identity became increasingly important. Very Peri’s uniqueness allowed people to use it not just as a fashion choice, but as a personal statement. It was non-traditional yet approachable, aligning with the rise of non-binary identities and fluid concepts of beauty.
Industrial and Product Design Applications
The reach of Very Peri extended even into product and industrial design, where aesthetics play a crucial role in consumer appeal.
Consumer Electronics
Manufacturers released special edition electronics such as wireless earbuds, smartwatches, and tablets in Very Peri. The color offered a refreshing alternative to standard black, silver, or rose gold options.
Example Product Launches
- Samsung Galaxy Buds with Very Peri charging case
- Apple Watch Sport Band collaborations with fashion designers
- Limited edition Nintendo Switch consoles featuring gradient designs ending in Very Peri tones
Automotive Design
Luxury and electric vehicle companies experimented with Very Peri-inspired paint finishes. Concept cars at auto shows featured iridescent blue-purple exteriors that subtly shifted tone under sunlight—echoing the dynamic nature of the color.
Global Reception and Regional Variations
While Very Peri was promoted as a universal color, its reception varied across cultures and regions, shaped by local traditions and consumer preferences.
North America
In the United States and Canada, the color gained widespread popularity, particularly in urban areas and among younger consumers. Retailers reported a 60% increase in sales of Very Peri products during the first quarter of 2022.
Europe
European markets embraced Very Peri in high-end fashion and interior design. Scandinavian brands integrated it into minimalist spaces, while Italian designers used it for bold artistic statements.
Asia-Pacific
In countries like Japan and South Korea, where digital culture is highly influential, Very Peri found favor in anime-inspired fashion, beauty packaging, and digital avatars. In contrast, some traditional markets were slower to adopt it, preferring locally symbolic colors such as red (for prosperity) or jade green (for harmony).
Latin America
The vibrant energy of Very Peri resonated well with Latin American aesthetics, known for bold use of color. It was featured in textiles, furniture, and mural art—often blended with tropical patterns and floral motifs.
Predictions: How Long Did the Trend Last?
While Pantone’s Color of the Year is usually influential for 12–18 months, some trends extend further depending on cultural resonance. Very Peri remained present through mid-2023 but began transitioning as Pantone announced a new Color of the Year for 2023: Magical Red (Viva Magenta).
What Made It Stand Out?
- It was the first custom color created specifically for the honor.
- Its foundation in digital culture made it timeless in fast-evolving tech spaces.
- Its emotional resonance helped it transcend seasonal trends.
The Legacy of Very Peri
Even as 2023 moved toward warmer, bolder tones, Very Peri continued to appear in transitional designs. Its use in digital media, particularly in gaming and VR environments, ensured a longer shelf life. Designers noted that the hue had a “post-digital calm” quality—calming yet futuristic—that will keep influencing palettes beyond its official year.
How to Keep Very Peri Relevant in Future Designs
The trend may have peaked in 2022, but there are ways to incorporate Very Peri thoughtfully into modern design.
In Fashion
- Use it in layering pieces like scarves, blazers, or accessories.
- Pair with neutral tailoring for a timeless look.
- Combine with metallics (silver, chrome) for a futuristic touch.
In Interiors
- Use as an accent color in throw pillows, rugs, or wall art.
- Combine with natural wood tones to bring organic warmth.
- Apply in children’s rooms or creative studios to inspire imagination.
In Branding and Digital Design
- Reserve it for sections highlighting innovation or creativity.
- Use in social media campaigns focused on empowerment and transformation.
- Pair with clean typography to maintain professionalism.
Conclusion: A Color That Defined a Year of Change
The color trend for 2022 was more than a passing fad—it was a cultural milestone. Very Peri, as Pantone’s Color of the Year, encapsulated the mood of global renewal, creativity, and digital evolution. Its introduction marked a shift from selecting from existing palettes to inventing a new one tailored to the moment.
From fashion runways to home walls, digital interfaces to car finishes, Very Peri sparked conversations, inspired designs, and provided a sense of emotional grounding during times of change. While trends come and go, the influence of Very Peri is likely to echo in design philosophies for years to come—reminding us that color is not just aesthetic, but deeply human.
As we look back on 2022, we remember it not just for its events, but for the vibrant tone that colored our world with possibility. Very Peri was more than a paint swatch or fabric dye—it was a symbol of what we hoped to become.
What is the official Color of the Year for 2022?
In 2022, Pantone selected Very Peri (PANTONE 17-3938) as the Color of the Year, marking a notable departure from previous selections. Very Peri is a dynamic periwinkle blue with violet red undertones, created specifically for this designation. It blends the dependability of blue with the energy of red, resulting in a fresh and vibrant hue that symbolizes creativity, transformation, and innovation. This was the first time Pantone introduced a new color for its Color of the Year rather than selecting from its existing palette.
The choice of Very Peri reflected the global mood during a period of transition, as societies emerged from the challenges of the pandemic and embraced digital innovation, particularly in the realms of virtual reality, gaming, and the metaverse. Pantone described the color as evoking a “vision of a new day,” encouraging optimism and imaginative exploration. Its influence was widely seen in fashion, interiors, graphic design, and product development throughout the year, cementing its status as the most influential hue of 2022.
How did Very Peri influence fashion in 2022?
Very Peri made a significant impact on the fashion industry in 2022, appearing in collections from high-end designers to fast-fashion retailers. The color graced runways during major fashion weeks, including New York, Milan, and Paris, often used in everything from elegant evening gowns to bold streetwear. Designers appreciated its versatility—it worked equally well in satin, denim, and knit fabrics—and its ability to convey both modernity and playfulness. It was frequently paired with neutral tones like beige and gray or contrasted with complementary colors such as coral and gold.
The influence of Very Peri extended beyond clothing to accessories, cosmetics, and footwear. Major brands like Reebok, Fenty Beauty, and Michael Kors released products featuring the hue, tapping into its trend-setting appeal. In makeup, interpretations included eyeshadows with a blue-leaning lavender tint and nail polishes with a glossy periwinkle finish. The color’s association with creativity and digital innovation made it especially popular among younger consumers and influencers, helping solidify its presence in 2022’s fashion landscape.
What role did the metaverse play in the selection of Very Peri?
The rise of the metaverse was a key factor in Pantone’s decision to introduce Very Peri as the 2022 Color of the Year. As digital worlds gained prominence in social interaction, gaming, and commerce, there was a growing need for colors that embodied both technological progress and human emotion. Very Peri, with its imaginative blend of blue and violet red, mirrored the surreal and expressive aesthetics seen in digital art and virtual environments. Its otherworldly yet approachable tone resonated with the sense of possibility inherent in emerging digital frontiers.
Pantone noted that Very Peri reflects the fusion of physical and digital realities, a concept central to the metaverse. The color’s electric yet balanced nature enabled it to stand out in both real-life applications and digital interfaces. It became a symbol of forward-thinking design, frequently appearing in cyber-inspired fashion, augmented reality experiences, and user interface design. By anchoring the Color of the Year in digital culture, Pantone underscored how technological advancements are shaping visual trends and emotional expression.
How was Very Peri incorporated into interior design in 2022?
Interior designers embraced Very Peri in 2022 as a refreshing and uplifting accent color for modern living spaces. It was often used in statement furniture pieces such as armchairs, ottomans, or area rugs, adding a pop of color to otherwise neutral décors. The hue also appeared in accent walls, textiles like throw pillows and curtains, and even kitchen appliances and bathroom fixtures. Its blend of blue and violet gave it a calming yet stimulating presence, making it well-suited for home offices, living rooms, and creative workspaces.
Designers paired Very Peri with earth tones, soft grays, and warm woods to create balanced, inviting interiors. In minimalist settings, it functioned as a focal point, while in eclectic spaces, it harmonized with other bold colors like mustard yellow and emerald green. Paint companies such as Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore released collections inspired by Very Peri, offering variations to suit different lighting and room sizes. This adaptability made it a favorite among homeowners looking to refresh their interiors with a touch of optimism and contemporary flair.
Were there any psychological meanings behind the choice of Very Peri?
Yes, the psychological implications of Very Peri were central to its selection as the 2022 Color of the Year. Pantone emphasized that the color represents a blend of emotional qualities—blue’s sense of calm, trust, and stability combined with violet red’s vibrancy, courage, and warmth. This fusion creates a hue that is both soothing and energizing, making it ideal for a year marked by recovery, reinvention, and adaptation. The color was seen as a visual manifestation of resilience and hopeful transformation.
Very Peri’s psychological impact encourages imaginative thinking and emotional openness. It stimulates creativity without being overly stimulating, which helps foster a sense of mental clarity and confidence. Psychologists and design experts noted its potential to reduce anxiety in work and living spaces when used thoughtfully. By choosing a color with such nuanced emotional resonance, Pantone aimed to support emotional well-being and inspire purposeful self-expression during a time of significant societal change.
Did other color authorities choose different hues for 2022?
While Pantone’s Very Peri received widespread attention as the most prominent Color of the Year for 2022, other design and paint authorities selected different hues based on their own trend analyses. For instance, Benjamin Moore named “Innocent White” as its Color of the Year, emphasizing a return to simplicity, cleanliness, and serenity in home environments. Similarly, Sherwin-Williams introduced “Evergreen Fog,” a calming green-gray that evoked nature, balance, and tranquility, reflecting a desire for grounding and wellness.
These divergent choices highlight different cultural currents in 2022—one leaning toward digital innovation and creative expression (Pantone), and the others focusing on emotional comfort, wellness, and a reconnection with nature. Each organization drew inspiration from distinct areas of life, from urban design and technology to mental health and sustainability. While Very Peri dominated headlines, colors like Evergreen Fog and Innocent White gained strong traction in residential design, showing that multiple trends coexisted and catered to diverse consumer needs.
How long is expected to be Very Peri’s influence in design trends?
While Very Peri was specifically designated for 2022, its influence has shown staying power into subsequent years, particularly in sectors that value innovation and youth engagement. Elements of its color family—periwinkle blues, soft violets, and lavender tones—continued to appear in digital design, fashion, and branding beyond 2022, suggesting that its aesthetic has embedded itself in the broader trend cycle. Designers appreciate its modern, gender-neutral appeal and its ability to bridge classic and futuristic styles.
That said, fashion and interior color trends typically evolve within a two- to three-year window. As new Pantone colors are introduced annually, attention shifts gradually. However, Very Peri’s legacy endures in color palettes that prioritize creativity and emotional complexity. Its impact also paved the way for greater experimentation with blue-violet hues across industries. Even as newer colors emerge, Very Peri remains a reference point for how cultural shifts, especially in technology and emotional awareness, can shape visual language.