KANSAS CITY, MO — Each year when Pantone announces its Color of the Year, it causes a big stir in the fashion and home decor industries. But retail bakeries should also be taking note. Just as color trends influence what dresses, armchairs and paint colors make it to market, they also trickle down to decorated sugar cookies, wedding cakes and birthday cakes. And if Pantone’s 2023 pick Viva Magenta is any indication, it’s going to be a very bright year ahead.

The unconventional shade is brave and fearless, a pulsating color whose exuberance promotes a joyous and optimistic celebration, writing a new narrative, according to the color experts at Pantone. Consumers are attracted to the vibrant, fierce shades of hot pink that take note from the Barbiecore esthetic (a trend inspired by the Mattel fashion doll) — and perhaps a desire for a bit of fun and nostalgia after several challenging years.