The cool temperatures and shorter days of mid winter inspire the pull of neutral tones and cozy, muted palettes. However there's a colour I’m loving that shakes up the traditional winter aesthetic: magenta. This vibrant, dynamic hue brings energy and unexpected warmth to the colder months, and I’ve been using it in interiors, including it in fashion and beauty, and appreciating it in the great outdoors. After all, Pantone’s Colour of the Year 2023 was ‘Viva Magenta’, so it’s no surprise we’re seeing it infiltrate the home. Here are some of my fave ideas on how to incorporate these shades into your daily routine for a mid-winter pick-me-up.

My moodboard

Interiors

Incorporate deeper accent colours like magenta, rust and terracotta in furniture, decor, and textiles. Use warm, muted tones as the base for walls and floors, such as soft beige, nude, taupe, or warm greys.
Natural materials like wood, leather, and stone pair well with wintery tones. Add cozy textures like wool, velvet, and knitted fabrics through throw pillows, blankets, and rugs.
Use items like ceramic vases, candles, and artwork that feature autumnal colours. Incorporate metallics like bronze, copper, and gold for a warm glow. Soft, warm lighting can enhance the cozy atmosphere. Use lamps with warm-toned bulbs, and consider dimmable options.
Use dried flowers, branches, and foliage in shades of orange, red, and brown for a natural touch. After the autumn leaves drop, winter flowers like cyclamen and some varieties of orchids come in beautiful magenta hues. Incorporate these and into your home with floral arrangements - branches and twigs with winter berries also create a stunning sculptural arrangement.
Introduce statement shades like magenta through artwork, vases, or other decorative items. These pieces can be easily switched out when you want a change, making them a flexible option for experimenting with colour.

Fashion

Opt for classic fabrics like wool or cashmere in wintery tones.
I love tonal dressing, where the entire outfit is from the same colour family. This works well with warm, wintery tones like deep beiges, caramels, dusky rose pinks or magenta tones.
Incorporate jewellery in warm metals like gold or bronze.
Shoes, boots and accessories in shades of brown, tan, or burgundy are the ideal complement.
A magenta coat can be a standout piece in your winter wardrobe, an energising change from traditional black or neutrals.

Beauty

Lip colours in deep reds, warm nudes, and berry shades complement tonal winter fashion looks.
Use warm eyeshadow shades like copper, bronze, and deep brown. Try deep, rich red wine colours on your nails for a change.
Warming up your hair a tone for winter including chestnut, auburn, or bronde (brown-blonde) can complement autumn tones in fashion and makeup.
As the weather gets cooler, focus on hydrating products to keep your skin glowing and healthy.
Opt for warm-toned blushes and bronzers to add warmth to your complexion.

Magenta is a vibrant, versatile colour that can bring warmth, comfort and energy to those chilly months. Try adding it to your home, wardrobe, beauty routine, or simply appreciating it in nature. As for me, I’ll also being enjoying it in a wine glass!