INTRODUCING THE PANTONE COLOR OF THE YEAR……. ULTRA VIOLET

April 11, 2018
A purple background with a lot of stars in it

A dramatically provocative and thoughtful purple shade, PANTONE 18-3838 Ultra Violet communicates originality, ingenuity, and visionary thinking that points us toward the future.

Complex and contemplative, Ultra Violet suggests the mysteries of the cosmos, the intrigue of what lies ahead, and the discoveries beyond where we are now. The vast and limitless night sky is symbolic of what is possible and continues to inspire the desire to pursue a world beyond our own.

Enigmatic purples have also long been symbolic of counterculture, unconventionality, and artistic brilliance. Musical icons Prince, David Bowie, and Jimi Hendrix brought shades of Ultra Violet to the forefront of western pop culture as personal expressions of individuality. Nuanced and full of emotion, the depth of PANTONE 18-3838 Ultra Violet symbolizes experimentation and non-conformity, spurring individuals to imagine their unique mark on the world, and push boundaries through creative outlets.

Historically, there has been a mystical or spiritual quality attached to Ultra Violet. The color is often associated with mindfulness practices, which offer a higher ground to those seeking refuge from today’s over-stimulated world. The use of purple-toned lighting in meditation spaces and other gathering places energizes the communities that gather there and inspire connection.

Man having an eye exam with an ophthalmoscope, being examined by a doctor.
By Tom Wilk November 27, 2025
Wondering what to ask before cataract surgery? Here are the top 7 questions to ensure you're confident, prepared, and ready for clearer vision.
Woman with  blonde hair and glasses, resting chin on hand, smiling.
By Rosendo C November 26, 2025
Struggling with progressive lenses? Discover practical tips to ease the transition, improve clarity, and avoid common mistakes.
Man with glasses in hand is touching his eyes like he is in pain.
By Rosendo C November 26, 2025
Discover how antifatigue lenses reduce digital eye strain, enhance comfort, and support healthier vision.
Black-framed glasses, one lens clean, one smudged. Icons show cleaning supplies, hairspray, bug spray, and sunscreen.
By Rosendo C October 29, 2025
Discover the everyday chemicals quietly damaging your eyeglass lenses. Learn how to avoid them and keep your vision crystal clear.
Woman with pink glasses and ponytail, thoughtful expression, with math equations in background.
By Tom Wilk October 29, 2025
Confused by your eye prescription? Learn what those numbers mean, from SPH to CYL, and how they impact your vision and glasses.
Comparison of IPL, RF, and Jett Plasma devices; white and teal/purple medical equipment with labels.
By Richard Wilk October 29, 2025
Struggling with dry eye? Learn the differences between IPL, RF, and Jett Plasma treatments, and find out which option may be right for you.
Boy stressed, holding head in hands, over a notebook with a ruler and pencils on a desk.
By Tom Wilk September 22, 2025
Think your child has ADHD? It could be a vision issue. Learn how to spot the differences and why a full eye exam should be your first step.
A Black man in sunglasses holding a saxophone, standing on a city street with a building in the background.
By Rosendo C September 17, 2025
Discover MOSCOT’s Fall 2025 Collection: Living History. Inspired by New York’s storytellers, creators, and visionaries, this five-frame release blends bold design, timeless craftsmanship, and authentic Lower East Side heritage.
Woman with gray hair, seated, holding her face, eyes closed, looking distressed.
By Rosendo C September 10, 2025
Struggling with progressive lenses? Learn how frame fit, lens design, and daily habits can improve comfort, reduce distortion, and help you adapt with confidence.
Older man with glasses looking at a laptop, sitting on a couch.
By Rosendo C September 3, 2025
Discover office lenses: indoor glasses that reduce digital eye strain and improve comfort, clarity, and focus during extended screen time.
Show More