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How we are navigating Sustainability

Navigating Sustainability

Our Journey towards a Greener Future

In a world where environmental consciousness is no longer a trend but a necessity, the global fashion industry faces an uphill battle in claiming eco-friendly credentials. At The Healthy Back Bag Company, we recognise that achieving true sustainability within this complex landscape is a challenge. We won’t make empty claims about our commitment to the planet, but we will share our sincere efforts and honest progress in our journey towards a greener future.

Embracing Imperfection

Our business thrives on valuing both an environmentally friendly lifestyle and the well-being of our customers. 

However, we wholeheartedly admit that the intricate web of the global fashion industry makes it a formidable task to attain impeccable eco-credentials. 

This is why we are stepping away from sweeping sustainability statements and, instead, embracing honesty, transparency, and accountability.

Confronting the Reality

It’s no secret that the fashion industry leaves a significant footprint on the environment. 

The ambiguity surrounding the term “sustainable fashion” can be overwhelming, leaving consumers puzzled and sceptical. In response, we are committed to a path of transparency and clarity, enabling our customers to make informed choices about their purchases.

We acknowledge that the path towards sustainability is a continuous one, with obstacles and complexities that can’t be easily overcome. Instead of pretending to be entirely sustainable, we choose to stand by values of honesty and authenticity.

“We embrace honesty, transparency and authenticity”

Taking Meaningful Steps

Our commitment to a more eco-conscious future isn’t just lip service. Here are some of the tangible steps we’re taking right now:

Eco-friendly Packaging: We’ve adopted recyclable, and recycled packaging as our standard. Our hangtags are made from 100% FSC certified paper printed with soy based inks and are fastened with a waxed cotton cord. 

Sustainable Transport: To reduce carbon emissions, we ship our bags by boat from our factories in the Far East to Europe. This six-week journey is one of the most sustainable transportation methods available.

Material Innovation: While achieving 100% organic and recycled materials isn’t always feasible, we’re well on our way. 35% of new AW23 products incorporate recycled materials, a percentage we commit to increase each season. 

Giving Back: We support projects and charities that have a positive impact on people’s lives, such as Movember and breast cancer charity Coppafeel. We have donated 100’s of changing mats and waterproof pouches to Happy Baby Community to distribute to new mothers. Additionally, we donate bags to initiatives like Barnardo’s, Love Grace charities and the Outdoor Guide Foundation’s Waterproofs and Wellies campaign.

Pre-Loved Program: We’re committed to reducing waste. Returned or leftover items find a new home through our Pre-Loved Program.

Building Relationships: Healthy relationships are at the core of our values. This extends not only to our team but also to factories, suppliers, warehousing, and, of course, our customers. We have worked with the same factories for over 20 years and are proud of our 4.9/5 star rating on TrustPilot with over 3,000 reviews.

Holistic well-being: A commitment to health and well-being runs through everything we do. From ergonomic office furniture for all our office team to promoting healthy living, we’re dedicated to a holistic approach to life, both inside and outside the office.

 

The Path Forward

Transparency is the cornerstone of our journey. We pledge to continue sharing detailed insights into our materials and the impact of our products. 

As we navigate this ever-evolving landscape, we’re actively seeking better alternatives, enhancing transparency in our supply chain, and supporting worthy causes. 

Mistakes are inevitable, but we own up to them and strive for improvement. Our mission remains unwavering: to prioritise our customers’ well-being and provide an eco-friendly option for our community.

“Transparency is the cornerstone of our journey”

We're Not Flawless

In an imperfect world, we’re committed to fostering positive change. Our journey may not be flawless, but it’s one guided by genuine intentions, responsible actions, and a shared hope for a greener future.

To learn more about our Impact and Sustainability programme click here

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Key colours for Autumn / Winter 23

New Season. New Colours
Autumn / Winter 23

By Fiona Ingham

The latest from our House of Colour blogger Fiona Ingham

As an Autumn, my Healthy Back Bags from past collections are all in warm tones.

A bright coral, citrus yellow and rich dark olive provide a variety of looks for every time of year and any event. The luxe leather fabric of my bronze bag makes it perfect for formal settings. And of course, the colours coordinate with my entire Autumn palette.

Recently I’ve had to travel light as well as hands free, so my small Limoncello Baglett has become my constant companion. It holds everything I need. Keys, credit cards, oyster card, phone, tissue, pen, sunglasses (ever hopeful!) glasses, shopping bag, hand sanitiser. Oh, and most importantly, in one of the side pockets, my True Terracotta lipstick!

So, let’s now take a look at the new AW23 Season Collection.

Autumns

Autumns could choose the golden Saffron to cheer up the grey months or enjoy rich Spruce from the deeper side of the palette.

Springs

Springs go bright, so Capri Blue is perfect. This lovely combo of shades works with all your neutrals: grey, navy, or the ultra-fashionable browns, caramels and beiges. The gorgeous Wild Violet is also wonderful for Springs.

Summers

Summers will be spoilt for choice with stunning Lilac, vivid Rosehip or Chestnut, to name but a few.

Winters

Winters could also choose Rosehip and Burgundy, or Spruce, a perfect green to blend into their range. Wild Violet would provide a totally different look.

There is so much choice in this collection, with many other fab possibilities which I have not pin pointed, in both brights and elegant neutrals. The luxurious leather options can elevate the look for formal social or professional settings.

 If your clothes are primarily in neutrals, accessories are an easy way to inject colour and jazz up the look. A Healthy Back Bag, either as a single splash of colour, or in one of the fun patterns currently available, can be the perfect solution.

Fiona Ingham

Consistent holder of the House of Colour Star Consultant award each year since 1991 plus the new Double and Triple Star Consultant award for 2019. Winner of the Business Development Award and Team Productivity Award.also a 2017 Livewire Innovation and Excellence Award.

Colour Analysis can be a Private Individual Session (two hours) with a group of friends or joining a group (both half day). If you did your Colours some time ago Fiona recommends the Advanced Colour session for further inspiration.

Contact details: Fiona.ingham@houseofcolour.co.uk 

@houseofcolourfionaingham

07791 507534

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Waterproofs and Wellies!

Waterproofs and Wellies

Helping Children get Outdoors

We are passionate about getting outdoors and supporting a healthy lifestyle so when our friends at The Outdoor Guide Foundation asked if we would contribute to their Waterproofs and Wellies campaign to encourage children to reconnect with nature and provide them with opportunities for outdoor learning, we jumped at the chance.

The Outdoor Guide Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to making the outdoors more inclusive by equipping children with waterproof overalls and a pair of wellington boots. 

The charitable arm of The Outdoor Guide (TOG) run by sisters Julia and Gina Bradbury, the Foundation has already delivered 3000 outdoor suits to deserving children across the UK, creating a profound impact on their enjoyment of the outdoors.

These donations have opened doors to outdoor learning for children who faced barriers before and these children are now able to benefit from the health and educational benefits of the great outdoors.

The Outdoor Guide Foundation Members and Ambassadors (From left to right Gina, Aiden, Gemma and Julia)

Getting outdoors one step at a time

With over 350 schools still on the Foundation’s waiting list, we were proud to be able to contribute to our local De Beauvoir Primary School where Priscilla, HBB’s Managing Director and Gina from The Outdoor Guide Foundation went along to meet the children and staff and witness the positive influence of our contribution first-hand. 

As an inner city school in North London, the great outdoors can feel far away for some pupils but with these waterproofs and wellies, they’re now kitted out to experience the joy of open skies whatever the weather!

"An enormous thank you for the fabulous sets of brand new wellies and waterproof suits. We love them!"

The Outdoor Guide Foundation

“Our mission is simple. We want to provide every state primary school in the country with at least ten sets of waterproof trousers, jackets and wellington boots so every child, regardless of their circumstance, has the ability to play outside.”

How can you help?

Want to get involved? There are plenty of ways you can help this amazing project from signing up, donating or helping to raise funds. Take a look at the Foundation website here for more information or get in touch via this link.

https://theoutdoorguidefoundation.org/

 

Join us and keep up with future blog posts and all things HBB!

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Fear of Colour

A Fear of Colour?

The latest from our House of Colour blogger Fiona Ingham

First published on the House of Colour website July 2023

Unlike the many countries where colourful dress is celebrated, we British are frequently seen as preferring neutrals, especially black, grey and white. The UK is not alone in this, but can you guess which colours people here are most unwilling to wear?

A study showed yellow to be the scariest, then pink, orange, red and green.

This makes total sense to me from observations of clients over many years plus  knowledge of Colour Analysis theory.

 Let’s consider why these colours might terrify:

Yellows

Yellows are wonderful on the warm skin tones of Springs and Autumns. But Winters and Summers have minimal yellow in their palettes and the wrong ones are truly unflattering.

Pinks and Oranges

Pinks and Oranges There are pinks for everyone, however warm skin tones dressed in cool fuchsias and cyclamens, or cool based people in coral and salmon look totally drained. Beware: Orange is only good on warm skin tones.

“ORANGE IS ONLY GOOD ON WARM SKIN TONES”

Reds

Red Myths and fear abound around this fabulous colour. But the great news is that everyone can wear a true or middle red. Think poppies and London buses. The cool seasons suit also carmine/cherry red and the warm seasons rock a flame/tomato red. Red exudes and creates confidence and energy. The right red is fabulous in every wardrobe!

Greens

Green All greens are not good for you. Beware earthy olives, mosses and grass green if you suspect your skin tones to be cool. Winters and Summers often have rightly taken fright at these iterations, but then neglected the potential of their jewel-like emeralds, sea greens or pines. Finding their flattering greens is often an exciting and surprising discovery for clients at a Colour class.

In contrast it’s interesting to consider two colours which generally feel safe to most clients that I see.

Blue

Blue This is the colour most loved around the world. I rarely meet a client who comes with negative views. It’s felt to be safe, soothing and trustworthy. But at a colour class we are specific and discover which blues are great and which ones to avoid.

Teal

Teal Most people feel positive about this hue, worn well by Penny Mordaunt at the Coronation. This is totally logical as it isn’t unkind to any skin tones.

Back in the day

Colour was celebrated by both women and men. Black was reserved for mourning. Enter Coco Chanel in the 1920s. She stated that bright colours were unsuited to couture, fit only for the stage.

In October 1926 her first LBD graced the cover of American Vogue. It was revolutionary and fitted with the Art Deco vibe. Its simplicity, flexibility and affordability suited the Depression of the 1930s. Over the following decades other influences resulted in black becoming the colour of authority, elegance and sophistication. And the slimming colour. For everyone. The truth is that only Winters look stunning in black!

It’s found that many rely on black and other neutrals from a fear of being seen to show off, trying to draw attention to themselves, or inviting criticism by wearing a bright colour which does not suit.

But I’m wondering, are attitudes changing? Colour Analysis is highly fashionable and Influencers, Instagrammers and selfie enthusiasts know they won’t attract interest if dressed only in neutrals.

Today the sun is out and like Mick Jagger ‘I see the girls go by dressed in their summer clothes’ – colourful floaty floral frocks, bold blocks of orange, red and shocking pink. In my tube carriage guys in tees of cobalt blue, fuchsia, turquoise and ice green. Wonderful!

The study showed that one third of people believed they would feel happier if they dared to wear colour. So true.  It would of course have to be from their appropriate colour palette!

Fiona Ingham

Consistent holder of the House of Colour Star Consultant award each year since 1991.

Colour Analysis can be a private, Individual session or Duo session where two friends attend together in the Primrose Hill studio.

Personal Style can be an Individual session or a Duo session for two friends in the studio OR an Individual session on Zoom for clients who live further away.

Please email or call for full information.

Fiona.ingham@houseofcolour.co.uk
Instagram @houseofcolourfionaingham
07791 507534

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Essentials for dog walking adventures

Essential Gear for an Enjoyable Dog Walk

6 Must-Haves for a Smooth Adventure

The mere mention of the ‘W’ word sends our HBB hounds, Lola and Otto, into a frenzy of excitement. Whether it’s a quick comfort break, an early morning run around the park, or a weekend hike through country paths, embarking on a dog walk is always an exciting adventure for both dogs and their owners.

Carrying a few key items can make a difference to the comfort, safety, and overall success of your dog walking excursion. So get ready to gear up and make your dog walking adventures a breeze!

Leash and Collar/Harness

A sturdy leash is the cornerstone of any dog walk. Opt for a sturdy one that suits your dog’s size and strength. Pair it with a well-fitted collar or harness to ensure proper control. Safety comes first, so don’t forget to attach an ID tag with up-to-date contact information. With this classic combo, you’ll have the peace of mind you need during your walks.

Waste Bags

There’s nothing worse than stumbling upon unexpected surprises left behind by others. Show respect for your community and keep those streets pristine by promptly cleaning up after your furry friend. Biodegradable bags are an eco-friendly option that helps preserve the environment.

Water and Travel Bowl

Staying hydrated is essential for both dogs and their humans during a walk, particularly on hot or extended outings. Carry a portable water bottle and a collapsible travel bowl for your dog. These lightweight accessories ensure that your furry friend can have a drink whenever needed, preventing dehydration and keeping them refreshed and energised throughout the walk.

Treats and Training Aids

Treats are your secret weapon. Pack a small supply of your dog’s favourite treats in a handy pouch to reward good behaviour and reinforce training. If you’re working on specific exercises consider bringing training aids such as balls, clickers or target sticks.

Doggy First Aid Kit

Having a basic first aid kit designed specifically for dogs can be a lifesaver. Include essentials such as adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze pads, tweezers (for splinters or ticks), and any medications your furry BFF may require.

Reflective Gear and Lights

For walks during low-light conditions or at night, prioritise visibility and safety. Attach reflective gear, such as a reflective collar, leash, or vest, to your dog. Additionally, consider carrying a flashlight or attaching a small LED light to their collar to enhance visibility for passing vehicles and pedestrians.

Fully prepped and ready to hit the pavements? With these essentials, you’re ready to embark on a fantastic dog walking adventure with your furry companion!

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6 Gift Ideas for Father’s Day

Gift Ideas for Father's Day

6 Fun ideas to help make this Father's Day truly exceptional

With Father’s Day just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to show appreciation for the incredible fathers and father figures in our lives. Spending quality time together is of course invaluable but if you’re looking for gift ideas that will add a touch of enjoyment to his special day, you’ve come to the right place.

Craft Beer Tasting

For the beer-loving dad, treat him to a craft beer tasting set. The UK has a vibrant craft beer scene, with a wide range of breweries producing delicious and unique brews. Look for a set that includes a selection of craft beers from different regions, allowing your dad to sample a variety of flavours and styles. Add in a beer tasting guide or even organize a beer tasting session at home to enhance the experience.

Whisky Tasting Experience

If your dad enjoys whisky, surprise him with a whisky tasting experience. Look for distilleries or specialised whisky bars that offer tasting sessions or tours. Alternatively, you could give him a whisky tasting set with samples from different Scottish distilleries. For a real blow-out, take him on a trip to Scotland!

Adventure Day Out

For the adventurous dad, give him an adrenaline-pumping adventure he won’t forget! Look for experiences like zip-lining, quad biking, white-water rafting, or a thrilling driving experience. There are numerous adventure parks and venues across the UK that offer these activities.

Sports Memorabilia

If your dad is a sports enthusiast, surprise him with a piece of sports memorabilia from his favourite team or athlete. Look for signed jerseys, autographed photographs, or even limited-edition collectibles. You can often find reputable sports memorabilia stores online or websites that specialise in authenticated items.

Food and Drink Hamper

Indulge your dad’s taste buds with a carefully curated food and drink hamper. Fill it with his favourite snacks, gourmet treats, craft beers, fine wines, or artisanal cheeses. You can either purchase pre-made hampers or even better, create a personalised one with products from your local deli or food shop.

Outdoor Camping Gear

For the nature-loving dad, equip him with new outdoor camping gear to fuel his sense of adventure. Look for items like camping cookware, a portable grill, a comfortable camping chair, or a durable back pack or day bag.

Father’s Day is a special occasion to honour the remarkable fathers and father figures in our lives. However you choose to celebrate, these gifts are sure to put a smile on your dad’s face and show him how much you appreciate him.

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Our top tips for stress-free holiday packing

Top tips for stress-free holiday packing

6 ways to make packing more fun!

Packing for a holiday can be a stressful task but with a little planning and preparation, it can become an art form. Follow our tips and tricks to master the art of stress-free holiday packing. 

1. Make a Packing List

Start by making a list of all the items you’ll need to bring with you. This includes clothing, shoes, toiletries, electronics, and any other essentials. Having a packing list will ensure that you don’t forget anything important for your holiday and will make packing a less stressful. 

2. Choose Versatile Holiday Pieces

When selecting your clothing, choose items that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits. This will save space in your luggage and give you more options while you’re away. Consider packing items that can be dressed up or down, and stick to a colour scheme to make coordinating your outfits easier.

“TRY AND KEEP TO A COLOUR PALETTE AND LAYER UP”

3. Roll Your Clothes

Rolling your clothes instead of folding them can save space in your luggage and help prevent wrinkles. This also makes it easier to see everything in your bag and allows you to pack more efficiently.

4. Use Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are a great way to stay organized and keep your items separate. They can be used to group similar items together, such as all your toiletries or electronics, and make it easy to find what you need without having to dig through your entire bag.

“PACKING CUBES WILL CHANGE YOUR LIFE!”

5. Maximise Your Carry On

If you’re flying, maximise the space in your carry-on luggage by packing your heaviest items first, such as shoes or toiletries. This will help distribute the weight evenly and make it easier to manoeuvre through the airport. Also, make sure to check your airline’s size and weight restrictions for carry-on luggage to avoid any extra fees.

6. Leave Room for Souvenirs

When packing, leave some extra space in your luggage for any souvenirs or items you may purchase while on holiday. Consider packing a foldable or flat pack bag that you can use to carry your purchases on your way back home.

Happy Travels!

Packing for a holiday should be a fun and enjoyable experience so by following these tips and tricks, you can master the art of holiday packing and be well-prepared for your next adventure. Happy travels!

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Daylight Saving and the Benefits of Light

Daylight Saving and the Benefits of Light

Get ready to change your clocks!

We all welcome those little signs of Spring: the first crocus, catkins, an early daffodil. With it comes a sense of the outdoors calling us into our gardens, parks and countryside and once the clocks go forward to British Summer Time (BST) on 26 March this year, Spring is truly with us. But why do we do change our clocks and what are the health benefits of daylight saving?

Where did daylight saving start?

Daylight saving was originally proposed in the UK in 1907 by William Willett, who happens to be the great-great-grandfather of Coldplay singer Chris Martin who was frustrated that he had to cut short his rounds of golf at dusk! 

But the concept was far from new, it was suggested by Benjamin Franklin, founding father of the United States, in 1784 as a way to save on candles and encourage people to wake up earlier in the morning. 

Energy saving

It wasn’t until the First World War that it was put into practice by the Germans to preserve energy by adding an extra hour onto the start of the workday and in 1916 Daylight Saving Time (DST) was finally implemented by the UK followed by the USA in 1918.

Love or hate daylight saving?

Daylight saving is now observed in many countries around the world, including Canada, and most of Europe and while many argue that it saves energy, reduces traffic accidents, and provides more time for outdoor activities in the evening, some suggest that the practice disrupts sleep patterns which can have negative effects on health and productivity. 

Top 6 benefits to soaking up the light

Like it or not, there doesn’t seem to be any sign of daylight saving being abolished and whether you are an early bird or a night owl, here are 6 reasons to embrace the clock change!

1.     Improves mood. 

2.    Boosts vitamin D

3.    Improves sleep

4.    Promotes healing

5.    Boosts productivity

6.    Enhances cognitive function

Clocks go forward at 1:00am on Sunday March 26th

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How to embrace going grey naturally

Going Grey Naturally

The latest from our House of Colour blogger

Fiona Ingham

First published on the House of Colour website December 2022
Silver Vixens 

Going grey is in Fashion 

Has the silver wave swept over you? Have you noticed the increased number of younger women rocking silver hair, or that many celebs have succumbed to grey? Or the influencers using hash tags such as #silversisters or #greyhairdontcare? Maybe you’ve seen on Instagram the Californian colorist Jack Wilson providing perfect greys for clients who pay up to $8,000 and travel from as far afield as New Zealand?

Covid lockdown forced many to go natural. Grey comes in several forms and some discovered that they loved their pepper and salt, silver, white, grey, or grey-blonde looks. Simultaneously silver hair became fashionable. Going grey fabulously rather than fading into it isn’t complicated, it just needs some thought.

Summers & Winters

When clients discover their House of Colour seasonal type, hair colour is often discussed. The best general advice is that Winters and Summers (cool skin tones) can look great if they go with the grey. If they prefer not to, then a good hair colourist will advise on their best cool look: ash browns, ash blonde, platinum or sometimes black.  Warm hair tones such as auburn or gold will be draining and ageing and should be avoided by cool toned people as they have the same effect as wearing clothes in Autumn’s chestnut, rust, or tan next to the face.

Springs & Autumns

Most Autumns and Springs can choose to cover the grey with shades that are easy to add, and which look natural, for as long as they like : warm blondes, auburn, warm browns, delicious caramel, or cinnamon.

Decisions

As an Autumn, my honey blonde highlights worked for many years. Eventually they began to look too ash or too orange. I tried wash-in wash-out products, with patchy results.  Around that time, I developed a flaky scalp. A trichologist sorted it out. The idea of having only his rosemary shampoo and lotion, rather than chemicals, on my scalp, appealed.  So, I stopped adding colour. I’m enjoying the white. I’ve saved a fortune!

When deciding to stop colouring, it’s essential to assess hair condition. There might be no change, or the hair may have thinned or become coarser, if so, there are now many products worth investigating. A purple or silver shampoo can enliven the cool based person’s grey. As a warm based Autumn I avoid them! Long tresses may still look good, or a shorter cut might enhance changed texture, and flatter the face. The exact time to go grey is important. Initially my greying hair was drab but when it became a brighter grey-blonde I was happy to go with it. The transition process wasn’t difficult with light coloured hair. With dark hair it is often less easy, but a good colourist will advise, and support and tips can be found on the internet. 

Does our Colour Season Change?

Our season won’t change but our Wow Colours within it might. A House of Colour Colour Rerate updates this. The new Advanced Colour course is also a great investment, taking knowledge of Colour combinations to the next level.

The Lipstick Effect

A makeup review is invaluable. Contrast in the face is an important feature in determining attractiveness and perceived age. It lessens with age as lips and eyebrows lose colour. A good eyebrow pencil becomes vital. Ramping up the blusher and adding bronzer will help. The top item to increase contrast and make us look our best is a bright lipstick. Clients often ask should their lipstick go paler as they get older. The answer is a resounding NO!!

Whatever your age and whether your choice is to add colour or to embrace the grey, don’t just fade away, but use the knowledge and power of colour in clothes and makeup to enhance the look, and have fun!

stripey dress and blusher copy

Fiona Ingham

Consistent holder of the House of Colour Star Consultant award each year since 1991 plus the new Double and Triple Star Consultant award for 2020. Winner of the Business Development Award and Team Productivity Award and also a 2017 Livewire Innovation and Excellence Award.

Colour Analysis can be a private, Individual session or Duo session where two friends attend together in the Primrose Hill studio.

Personal Style can be an Individual session or a Duo session for two friends in the studio OR an Individual session on Zoom for clients who live further away.

Please email or call for full information.

Fiona.ingham@houseofcolour.co.uk
@fionainghampresentation
07791 507534

See Fiona's Profile
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Viva Magenta the colour of the year 2023

Viva Magenta the colour of the year 2023

Written by Fiona Ingham for House of Colour

Welcome to the Magentaverse!

 

Leatrice Eiseman Executive Director, has announced Viva Magenta as Pantone’s colour of 2023. Since 2000, Pantone, both a predictor and influencer of colour trends has chosen a colour to symbolise the year. Recently both warm and cool shades have featured : Living Coral, Classic Blue, Illuminating Yellow/Ultimate Gray and in 2022 Veri Peri, a violet hue, kind to all skin tones.

Pantone’s global team have researched art, films, worldwide events, social media, technology and much more, to choose a colour which best represents the zeitgeist of this ‘unconventional time’.

“Viva Magenta is their choice for 2023”

The colour of the year explained

The announcement’s prose is, as always, rather purple, and a huge amount is asked of the colour. It’s described as vibrating ‘with vim and vigor’, promoting a ‘joyous and optimistic celebration’, ‘writing a new narrative’ and being  ‘brave and fearless‘. It will ‘galvanize our spirit and help us to build our inner strength’. Well, let’s hope so!

The red of cochineal, most precious and brightest of the natural dyes, is the inspiration. Viva Magenta is also related to ‘mauveine’, the first synthetic dye which rapidly became fashionable as natural purples had previously been hugely expensive, when discovered accidentally by the chemist William Perkin in 1856.

Pantone believes the added blue note removes any aggressive connotations but retains its standout, bold statement quality.‘Pinkish red’, ‘Carmine red’, ‘Blue-pink’, ‘between blue and red’ have all been used to describe it.

“Viva Magenta is bringing vibrancy into 2023” 

Viva Magenta already spotted

Iterations have appeared on the red carpet and Lewis Hamilton wore it fabulously head to toe last September. The Princess of Wales sported a Viva Magenta trouser suit on the day of the announcement. It’s already available in many clothing brands.

Who can wear Viva Magenta?

It’s wonderful for the cool based, fitting well into the burgundy/carmine/fuchsia looks for Winters and the burgundy/cherry/amethyst looks for Summers. Pantone have collaborated to produce sneakers and a phone in this hue. Many House of Colour Winter and Summer lipsticks and all the blushers work with it.

It’s not a colour for the warm based skin tones of Autumns and Springs . But a tiny amount in a pattern or trim, even the colour clash of a belt or small bag could be fun. Pantone’s limited edition Cortado cup or Key chain are other options.

Interior Design

Viva Magenta will be everywhere in interior design in 2023, which is moving away from the greiges of recent years. Going bold and painting a wall or maybe just adding a bright pop with a cushion or rug are ways of getting in on the act!

Autumn and Springs

But warm based people do take heart! Check out instead the bright warm green of the rented evening dress worn by the Princess of Wales in Boston. A shade equally appropriate for these ‘unconventional times’ and a nod to green issues.

Just as much a ‘stand out statement’ as Viva Magenta and perfect with any House of Colour Spring or Autumn lipstick or blusher. Due to the ‘Kate effect’ it may well spike in popularity and become a trend colour and readily available. Let’s hope so! If neither of these colours appeal there are still fabulous purple and violet variants of 2022’s Veri Peri around.

They can be bought with confidence as they are flattering to all colourings!

stripey dress and blusher copy

Fiona Ingham

Consistent holder of the House of Colour Star Consultant award each year since 1991 plus the new Double and Triple Star Consultant award for 2020. Winner of the Business Development Award and Team Productivity Award and also a 2017 Livewire Innovation and Excellence Award.

Colour Analysis can be a private, Individual session or Duo session where two friends attend together in the Primrose Hill studio.

Personal Style can be an Individual session or a Duo session for two friends in the studio OR an Individual session on Zoom for clients who live further away.

Please email or call for full information.

Fiona.ingham@houseofcolour.co.uk
@fionainghampresentation
07791 507534

See Fiona's Profile

Join the list

Get the VIP info on all things Healthy Back Bag, including our newest designs, special releases and monthly giveaways. Plus you’ll get 10% off your first order!