Color Psychology in Clothing and Fashion
What Does Wearing Gray Symbolize?
Gray symbolizes sophistication, elegance, and stability. It can also project simplicity, neutrality, or minimalist on a wearer. In fashion, gray is a neutral color typically used to make an outfit less noticeable and prominent. This fact also influences the color-psychological association.
Gray symbolizes modesty, which is often associated with wisdom. But how did it come to be so?
Well, we've all seen the stereotype of the old mage in their shaggy robes or the wise woman in her flowing gray gowns, haven’t we?
The color gray used to be associated with mourning customs in ancient times, where it was worn at funerals and during periods of grief. Nowadays - depending on its shade or tint - it represents elegance and sophistication.
Also, it's no wonder that this neutral tone has become a mainstay in modern fashion - its versatility makes it perfect for day and nightwear!
Though gray is still somewhat associated with wisdom and propriety, the connotation has shifted more towards neutrality and simplicity. For example, a gray suit or dress has the ability to project authority and poise.
What Gray Symbolizes
Gray symbolizes sophistication, elegance, and stability. It can also project simplicity, neutrality, or minimalist on a wearer. In fashion, gray is a neutral color typically used to make an outfit less noticeable and prominent. This fact also influences the color-psychological association.
The Color Psychology of Gray
Most people associate gray with gray hair, which is often seen as a sign of old age and wisdom. This connotation still persists to this day, albeit less strongly.
Gray has been used in many cultures to signify modesty and propriety, but it also symbolizes neutrality and simplicity. This is most likely due to the fact that gray is halfway between black and white. In other words: gray is "middle-ground".
The gray color is often considered quite depressing and gloomy and is sometimes even associated with failure. For example, gray cars are generally not the most popular choice while car-shopping (maybe because of this?). Also, all-gray is generally not preferred for home interiors (but it's a great color to pair with others).
In the past, gray was associated with mourning, sadness, and depression; however, although this association has long not disappeared, it has weakened. The middle ground between black and white has a much more sophisticated and elegant touch to it nowadays.
Gray also has spiritual symbolism as it can be worn on a religious occasion such as a funeral or a wedding service. In addition, gray can represent mourning for those who have lost someone close to them.
Dust and ashes often appear grayish. This fact strengthens the connotation of old age and fragility. Conversely, gray is also found in rocks and concrete which are obviously the exact opposite of fragile, namely “stable” or robust.
Gray is a color that is easy to pair with others. The accents are what help give a predominately gray outfit its true color psychological meaning. | Socks: Tic Tac Toes
In some cases, gray may be considered unlucky because of its association with death and darkness; however, this meaning does not seem to apply universally across cultures or religions.
There are many other meanings that gray might carry depending on the culture's context including intelligence, depression, anger, submission, deceit, and evil.
The symbolism behind gray can vary when the undertone is changed. A warmer gray is more agitating whereas a colder, more blues-infused gray is rather calming. More on this later, though.
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Gray in Fashion and Clothing
Gray is a common "color" seen in clothing. It has been worn since ancient times to symbolize modesty and intelligence, which together can be combined to wisdom.
Think of Gandalf and his gray robe (before he gets his upgrade).
Guess what? You do actually appear wiser or more educated when you wear gray, as this resource suggests.
First and foremost, though, gray has a plethora of religious symbolism spanning across many belief systems.
For example, gray dresses are considered modest yet simple attire worn by nuns during services or funerals. Moreover, gray scarves are often seen during religious ceremonies especially in Islam where women cover their heads.
In addition, gray clothing represents mourning in many religions for those who have lost someone close to them (i.e., gray armbands). One way gray has come to represent spirituality is through the lack of color.
Gray is also the traditional color of mourning in the UK and United States; so it is often seen worn by those who are grieving the loss of someone close to them. It is a widely accepted alternative to black when it comes to funerals.
A gray scarf is seen as a tradition that has been adopted from Islam or Hijab where women cover their heads with scarves. Many Muslim women wear gray scarves during religious ceremonies like Hajj (pilgrimage) or Umrah (Lesser pilgrimage).
Women working in Saudi Arabia are even encouraged to wear gray scarves so they can be identified as professional women instead of (currently) non-working Saudi women.
Gray clothing could also symbolize intelligence because gray refers to the "gray matter" of the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system. Gray matter controls all thought processes, motor skills, emotions, reasoning, etc… Therefore gray might represent intelligence because it governs mental functions rather than physical actions.
Yes, gray is regarded as a very professional color to wear. It's not overbearing and it doesn't draw too much attention to the wearer. Gray clothes are viewed as elegant and poised and can symbolize authority.
In certain cultures, gray is associated with bad luck or misfortune, though, which can cause people to avoid gray as a clothing color altogether. This is a pity because it's one of the most versatile and useful colors in fashion.
Shades and Tints of Gray
The symbolism of gray is not restricted to one shade; rather, the meaning of gray comes from its existence as an undetermined color with varying degrees of lightness and darkness.
Light gray can have a very different psychological effect on a viewer than a dark gray.
Gray with an added portion of white (i.e., a tint) inherits some of white's colors-psychological properties such as purity, innocence, or naivete. This makes gray a much less serious color.
When black is added to gray the resulting tone is a shade of the previous one. Dark grays, for example, anthracite or charcoal, have a much stronger, more sophisticated touch to them than their lighter counterparts. Gray inherits the traits of black to make it more elegant and mysterious.
Today gray has become a popular fashion statement in many parts of the world. Many designers use it for everything from suits to dresses because gray is often seen as stylish and sophisticated - depending on its shade.
Fun fact: Gray is even used by some colleges to represent their school colors when they do not have an official set of colors yet. This is actually an obvious choice when you think about it.
Ways to Wear Gray in Your Daily Life
Gray is a color that has been associated with wisdom for centuries. It was the color of choice among monks and scholars, as gray symbolized modesty and propriety.
In more recent times, gray has become a neutral "color" that can be worn almost anywhere to create an effortless look. There are many ways to wear gray in your daily life from wearing gray jeans, gray shoes, or even gray nail polish!
Here are some ideas on how you can incorporate this sophisticated shade into your everyday wardrobe:
Light gray is the perfect tint for summer shorts, as they make you look tanned and refreshed. Pair gray shorts with a light gray (almost white) shirt to create a relaxed yet put-together outfit.
Dark gray pants are ideal for weekend wear, paired with gray shoes and a light gray t-shirt you will look smashing whether you're at a brunch or strolling through the park!
Gray jeans are versatile enough to go with almost anything, especially with a dark gray blazer or jacket.
The tone of all tones goes well with almost any color as well! Gray denim looks great when paired with bright colors like pink, orange or blue. Pick a color and pair it with your gray elements and you're most likely good to go.
Gray sneakers are great to have in your arsenal of footwear because they pair up with virtually any clothing. For example, a dark gray blazer over a light gray t-shirt is the perfect way to dress up this casual shoe style Sprinkle in a tad of color if you wish to make an accent.
Gray heels can add an extra element of sophistication and elegance to your everyday look. Try gray on gray by styling gray pumps with a gray dress or gray skirt.
In any case, it's generally a breeze to wear gray. Yes, when it comes to sweat stains, gray isn't the ideal clothing color to wear. But, we believe that's an acceptable price to pay for the flexibility this color provides in fashion.
Pair gray with any color you wish. Just give it a go and see how it looks. There are a few "rules" to consider when mixing and matching colors to make an outfit perfect, though. So, we suggest you read up on this article.
Wear darker gray to look more sophisticated and authoritative, but choose lighter grays to look younger and more lively.
The Symbolism of Gray - in Short
Gray may have been associated with wisdom or mourning in the past, but gray is now a neutral color that can be worn to add simplicity, elegance, sophistication, and neutrality to any outfit.
The many ways you can wear gray are countless and should give your wardrobe some variety - especially when you mix in some splashes of color.
If you’ve found yourself lacking in gray denim or need help incorporating more gray into your wardrobe, we hope these ideas we've provided will inspire you.
For those of you who want something extra special this season, try out our favorite combination: an all-gray look with a brightly colored shirt and matching socks.
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What Does White Clothing Symbolize?
According to color psychology, the color white can symbolize a variety of meanings and feelings ranging from innocence, cleanliness, peacefulness, to even emptiness. But, depending on how and where in the world you wear white, the color has other symbolic meanings. In some cultures, white means life, in others it’s the color of death.
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Do you know what the symbolism of white clothing is? When we put together an outfit while using white clothing pieces, there is the possibility people might potentially interpret your appearance in a certain way.
After analyzing the color psychology of almost the whole color wheel, by explaining how wearing a color can affect your mood, we think it’s time to dig a little deeper into the symbolism behind white clothing.
As previously expressed, a color can alter, change, and influence your mood. It can enforce feelings of happiness, calmness, passion, or even power. From blue to green, to even orange, these emotions will range.
In this issue, we will discuss what wearing white can symbolize, from emotions to even associations.
The Color Psychology of White
White, according to color psychology, can symbolize a variety of meanings and feelings ranging from innocence, cleanliness, peacefulness, to even emptiness. Within history, the color white is portrayed as good and is symbolically linked to various situations and meanings. In some cultures, white means life, in others it’s the color of death.
In fashion, white can portray different styles, as it truly is timeless. It encourages the wearer to look professional, sleek, modern, elegant, and formal without being overbearing.
White is often worn during special occasions, religious rituals/ practices, or events that demand formal wear. It can also work to bring forth another color, emphasizing or highlighting it. As white matches every color, it is universal and will enhance an outfit’s vibrance.
What Does White Symbolize?
Wedding dresses are white for a reason! In A Guide to Color Symbolism, it states how white symbolizes “purity” and “newness”. The term white means “untouched” or “unblemished” by color.
White clothing symbolizes purity and peace. It looks elegant, sleek, and professional.
With this definition, it has translated into the wedding ceremony signifying a bride’s innocence and virginity. This represents a clean slate, her innocence, chastity, and new beginnings.
In some scenarios and cultures, white can signify coldness, loneliness, and even death. As white favors no specific hue, it is untarnished by color. We can also view it as boring, plain, and stark. However, this depends on what situation it appears in and who is interpreting it.
White is ideal if you are looking to appear perfect, untouched, and sophisticated. The starkness and superiority of it appear angelic and sacred.
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Biblical Symbolism of White
Biblically, white represents prophecy, righteousness, and wisdom. We can find this symbolism within the Bible and popular culture. For example, the two prophetic horses, which embodied truthfulness and righteousness, appeared in white.
When we think of heaven, anything angelic, or something that resembles “goodness”, we tend to pair white with it.
In contrast, black represents evil, sin, and anything unholy. Think of the Halloween costumes of a good angel versus a bad one. Typically, the good angel is in all white, whereas the evil angel is in black.
As this study published in the Journal of Cross-Cultural Psychology suggests, white is the color that portrays “good”. However, it is also perceived as “weak”.
One represents life and purity, whereas the other represents death and sin. Another excellent example of white representing good and black representing bad is the Ancient Chinese concept of Yin and Yang.
The Color of “New”
White also symbolizes a fresh start, peace, and cleanliness. Starting over (like with a blank page or a white canvas) is often represented in white.
When we reference cleaning, we strip an object of its dirt or color that tarnishes its immaculate state. Bounty, the paper towel company’s commercials almost always feature a crisp white clean surface that a very dark and dirty spill tarnishes. When using Bounty on the surface, they restore it back to its perfect and pure state.
White is also a symbol for peace. As World Birds states, white doves, on an international level, “represents hope and peace”. They signify “global optimism” that resonates across various cultures. This is also why a white flag/towel is waved when a war or fight breaks out and an opponent wants to call a truce.
Variations of White
As white is untouched by color, we can’t necessarily call anything in relation to white a shade. White isn’t a color. So, there technically aren’t any “shades” of white. However, there are variations of it!
For example, eggshell, vanilla, and ivory. When we think of these variations, we do group them with white. That is how we classify them; we classify them as “off-white” variants.
Left: pure white | Right: Eggshell
Left: pure white | Right: Vanilla
Left: pure white | Right: Ivory
Yes, it’s hard to tell a difference…
Do these variations still carry the same symbolism and interpretations as pure white does? No, not exactly. In our opinion, they can’t!
These shades are blemished, tarnished, and touched by color. They no longer hold the same meaning white does. Remember, white is “blemish-free”, it’s “pure”, and it’s “innocent”.
Off-white shades aren’t as pure as true white is; they can’t be. However, they hold the title of being “less-pure than white”. They are altered by colors of yellow or even brown. This means that yes, they are still white, but less genuine versions.
That is why they are variations of white and don’t encompass the exact same symbolism.
When painting a wall, sometimes people don’t want the perfect and starkness that white offers. White can sometimes appear too bright and too pure for some individuals. Therefore, versions of white, like eggshell, are often preferred.
Since white can be overly pure or clean, off-white alternatives are great for when you want to look less “spot on” and more “down to earth”.
The same goes for clothing. More often than not, “white clothes” are actually not purely white but rather off-white. This mostly has to do with white clothing taking on the colors of other clothes while being washed and thus losing its purity.
Yes, we will be writing an article about how to wash colorful clothing soon.
But for all reasonable purposes, white clothes are considered white – even if they technically aren’t.
White in Clothing
Now that we’ve covered the symbolism, history, and variations of white, it’s time to discuss when and where to wear it!
Besides weddings, baptisms, and communions, white can appear in your everyday wardrobe. It can be a power outfit! From special occasions to looking like JLo at President Joe Biden’s inauguration, it can demand attention and allow you to appear sophisticated.
It’s great for when you want to look pure, innocent, and youthful. It is often worn during sacred practices to signify renewals, cleansing, and protection.
White also offers a sense of balance! When wearing a pop of color, for example, our Super Fruit Socks, a white clothing item will enhance and emphasize these socks’ colors and make them appear more vibrant! However, be careful of when and where you wear white, as sometimes it can come across as overly pristine, sterile, and plain.
A good rule to follow? Even though white works with every color, it’s best not to pair it with any of its own variations. Stay away from any eggshell and pure white color combos. This will usually create a rather weird and frumpy outfit choice!
But, more on how to wear white in future articles. Sign up for our Member Letter to be notified when it’s out.
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What does black clothing symbolize?
Black portrays elegance and power, and, contrary to popular belief, black gives fashion true validation. Many fashion brands would not exist without the darkest of all shades. It goes well with almost every other color and is easy to pull off as a clothing color.
Black is a lot of things, but "discreet" is usually not one of them. The little black dress, black sheep, black Friday; all have black in them, but they represent different things entirely.
When it comes to black, there is a lot of debate regarding the color theory and psychology around it – whether it's a color or not, and people's perception of it. It would interest you to know that because true black absorbs all light, it is achromatic (not actually a color) and is used to represent darkness.
Black was the first color early man used to scribble and illustrate their art on cave walls with. And ever since, it has been the default color we use for most things – especially print paperwork.
It is safe to say black is the mother of earthly mysteries and complexities. This universal color may look the same to most, but everybody has an avid interpretation of what black means – especially when it comes to clothing.
The Symbolism of Black Clothing
The color black is a shade/color that comes off as mysterious, serious, prestigious, and powerful to most people. When worn, it is a symbol of class, business, elegance, and sexiness while also having an overbearing, even sometimes evil character to it.
In the world of fashion, black is very popular. But why? Could it be because of what people perceive when a person wears black? This begs the question: “What does black clothing symbolize?”.
Cultural Color Psychology of Black Clothing
Black has different symbolic meanings depending on people’s cultural heritage. It represents mourning to some and power to others. However, the way we perceive black is determined by a lot of factors.
For example, in art, how people interpret color is synonymous with how the color makes the viewer feel. And other times, color is linked to societal beliefs, religious beliefs, or values we've been taught to admonish regarding certain colors. So what is our perception of black?
A person who wears black is perceived as bold, serious, confident, strong, and sometimes even superior.
Black makes you look serious and authoritative. It is also one of the easiest colors to pair with others. Almost anything goes. | Socks: Shrooms
No matter where we are when we see someone wear black, we have a vague idea of what the wearer's intentions are. Yes, even if it’s only to not stick out in a crowd (we’ll get to that in a bit).
Black is a strong color that usually represents strength and boldness, especially when paired with other colors.
Whether you are going for a job interview, a PTA meeting, drinks with friends, a funeral, or even a Goth concert, you can rarely go wrong with black. That’s because black is to fashion what water is to life.
A Brief History of Black in Fashion
In the 14th century, good quality black dyes were developed. And, as usual, only notable elite members of society could wear black. This was mainly because dyes were expensive to produce – especially ones that were hard to procure, like purple or black.
Queen Elizabeth I. adorned herself in black for her portrait after fending off an invasion from the Spanish Armada in 1588 and Queen Victoria wore it to mourn her daughter in the 19th century.
Fast forward to 1927, Coco Chanel (the iconic fashion mogul) created a fashion line with several black dresses and takes credit for the origin of “the little black dress”.
At the same time, Audrey Hepburn’s black dress in Breakfast at Tiffany's made this style of clothing spread like wildfire, becoming a staple must-have.
Black makes you more attractive - especially when paired with red.
Nowadays, black cocktail dresses are bought (and worn) because they are known to be sexy. The same goes for well-cut black suits, by the way.
It's obvious that all through the years black has evolved into a “color” with various meanings. But no matter who the wearer is, the intention of black clothing is always (and has always been) understood.
The Symbolism of Pure Black Clothes
Fashion trends, seasons, and colors come and go. Despite the volatile nature of fashion, Coco Chanel said, "black has it all, white too, their beauty is absolute, it is the perfect harmony."
Simply put, black is indispensable. Dark clothes radiate an air of intelligence, confidence, and attractiveness. Even though black still has a negative interpretation to it, many people still see black as stable and reliable. Why else would people wear black for important events?
Which outfit is more elegant? Middle gray is fine and dandy but maybe a bit too playful to be “elegant”. Black, on the other hand, is much more serious. | Socks: Rainbowie
Black represents professionalism and communicates a sense of responsibility. Most people feel more comfortable handing over their life savings to a banker in a black suit than one wear on a pink suit, right?
We’re not saying pink is a bad color, but someone wearing black just seems more reliable. If you plan to impress, then definitely wear pure black.
If you’re looking to be more successful in life, wearing a lot of black clothes (or any dark color for that matter) can be beneficial. Simply wearing the color can have a similar effect as Neuro-Remapping.
Neuro-Remapping is an effective way to prime yourself for success, as this Harvard psychologist suggests. More on the topic here:
Just in case you are wondering, you can wear pure black as either accent or canvas pieces. Yes, you CAN use black to accent! It’s not that easy to pull off, but if you read up on our article on accent colors, you’re bound to get it right.
Different Variations of Black
Light Black?
Yes, you can modify black (slightly) before it starts to look light gray or a dark version of some hue. “Light black” is black with a small smidge of white added to it, so it looks like a very, very dark gray.
Since pure black can come off as serious and look a bit overbearing, adding white to it makes it less imposing and more playful. This brings out the elegant and sophisticated properties of this very dark shade.
Fashion understands that pure black can be overwhelming; that's why “light black” is possible. Tints of black are more subtle and not as overpowering as the pure version. They’re great for business outfits, by the way.
Tinted black is a fairly simple color to pull off whether you plan to impress, stand out or just need a little boost of confidence.
Dark gray is the same thing as light black. The suit is clearly black, but what about the shirt? Some would say it’s gray, others would argue it’s light black.
Dark black?
Before Darth Vader christened the iconic all-black ensemble, “dark black” pieces have always been noteworthy all through the evolution of life and fashion couture. “Black black”, meaning “as dark as it gets”, represents aggression, sadness, gloominess, evil, detachment, bad omens, and even death.
Dark black is a concept that has less to do with the amount of black pigment and more with the texture of its surface. If one black surface absorbs less light than another, it will inevitably appear less dark. The “shininess” is largely texture-dependent.
Moreover, dark black shades in written fiction and movies are like a measuring tool for badness. Dracula, evil villains, and bad people always wear “blackest black”.
Even though there are several interpretations of what black shades ought to be, its still a powerful color that depicts responsibility, strength, confidence, mystery, formality, and independence. All of these are traits of the classic villain – muahahaha!
Interesting Benefits of Wearing Black
Black clothing can be the mask you wear to express a more confident version of yourself if you need the extra boost. Depending on the style/cut of clothing you pick, it can help even more.
If you want to look classy and exude elegance, then choose black. In fashion, nothing’s easier than that. If you want to learn how to pull off more exciting colors, though, we suggest reading our articles on color in fashion – that’s what COLORBUX is all about, anyway.
Blend in Better
Wearing black clothing helps you blend in with your surroundings (usually). This is because black is so dark – and wearing dark clothing is much more subtle than donning bright, flashy colors. Many people consciously choose to wear black because of its power to “hide”.
And if you’re looking for a piece of clothing that will help you stand out instead of blend in, then these puppies could be perfect for you. They go well with black (obviously).
Look Slimmer
Among its many benefits, wearing black has a slimming effect, since you can accentuate your assets or divert attention from them. Black is (in the case of slimming) usually used to not pull focus. Brighter colors are used as accents to peoples draw attention away from the “problem areas” that are often covered by dark or even black clothing.
For example, you can use our socks or any other bright piece of clothing to draw attention.
Black Clothing is Inevitable
Black is a necessity we can't do without. Its importance cannot be trivialized in fashion and even beyond. Black creates balance and contrast, and a wide variety of several other colors wouldn't exist without it. Try to darken a color without using black...
If there was no black, the world would seem so bland, because there would be no contrast to light or vibrant colors.
Black is important: It portrays elegance and power, and, contrary to popular belief, black gives fashion true validation.
We write a lot more about dark colors (and black) in fashion in our article about dark versus light clothing colors. We suggest digging into that topic to learn how to wear dark colors the right (and easy) way.
Alternatively, we recommend subscribing to our Member List so you get frequent updates (once or twice a month) on our newest articles.
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What Does Chartreuse Clothing Mean?
Clothes of chartreuse color show ambition. They represent youthfulness, enthusiasm, growth, happiness, nature, liveliness, and springtime. Chartreuse, also know as yellow-green, is a rare color in fashion - except for when it’s darkened. It then becomes olive, which we see often in clothing.
Chartreuse = Yellow-Green
Let's talk about chartreuse. It's not just a fancy name; it is also an alluring color. Chartreuse is a classic bright green color mixed with yellow. It’s actually just another word for the hue we like to call yellow-green.
It gets its name from a French liqueur from the 18th century with similar coloring made by the Carthusian monks in France. Combining the rejuvenating energy of green and the magnificent splendor of yellow, the daunting nature of chartreuse makes it so fascinating. That said, what does chartreuse clothing mean and what signals do you send when you wear it?
What Does Chartreuse Clothing Symbolize?
Chartreuse clothing represents youthfulness, enthusiasm, growth, happiness, nature, liveliness, and springtime. Its appealing nature radiates an aura of creativity, motivation, and inspiration. In short: clothes of the chartreuse color show ambition.
Yellow-Green is often called chartreuse. It is a bright and driving hue.
For years artists have used this delicate color to illustrate springtime and all the happiness, excitement, and pleasure that comes with it. Van Gogh was one such artists who dabbled in chartreuse to outline the intricacies of his art. From there on out, several impressionists followed suit and brought youthfulness and life to their painting using this color.
Chartreuse occurs throughout nature in various healthy edible plant species like pears, lime, avocado, pistachios, green apple, and many more. It is closely linked with the 'spruce' of health and, as such, depicts good health, healing, and healthy life.
The History of Chartreuse in Fashion and Design
Chartreuse was not only prominent in the art world; it played a vital role in 19th-century fashion. This color represented elegance in all forms of clothing, including hats, purses, gowns, shoes, and even feather fans.
However, it later became a controversial color because many fashion model icons couldn't decide on the use of the color chartreuse. Some thought the combination of two such bright and “sour” colors (green and yellow) was lethal and abysmal. At the same time, others felt the strident nature of the color made it exciting, fresh, and youthful.
Of late, chartreuse has become the color for interior decor in corperate offices because it mirrors attributes of high values, reflecting creativity and distinctiveness. Notwithstanding, the characteristics of this color suggest that it is not for the faint of heart. Now, how does our mind interpret chartreuse?
Color Psychology of Chartreuse
Do you know that the colors you see can influence your state of mind and emotions? Color is a kind of energy that affects us psychologically and plays a vital role in our lives. It is a strong nonverbal and visual communication tool that influences mood and prompts a reaction.
As the famous saying goes: “The eye is the window to the soul”. Color frames and defines that window. So, how does chartreuse affect that window?
Most people interpret this unconventional hue as an adventurous one. The position of yellow-green on the color wheel embodies the properties of both yellow and green. It comes as no surprise that it is considered unpredictable because of its color properties. Nonetheless, it sprouts positivity, optimism, enthusiasm, and can represent nature's healthy glow. According to Pablo Picasso: "Colors like features follow the changes of emotion".
Moreover, the vitality of the color can help spark creative thinking in others. That's the reason tech companies choose this color for their interior because it can inspire innovative ideas, elevate mood, and foster individuality as well as productivity. It's perceived as intuitive with a powerful inclination towards self-expression.
Despite all these wonderful qualities, chartreuse also possesses some negative qualities. It can come off as unpredictable, jealous, uncertain, unguarded, and irresponsible. Now that we understand what it means, let's see what the variations of the pure hue can symbolize.
Saturated Chartreuse in Clothing
Lying between fully saturated yellow and green is the purest form of chartreuse, the color we call yellow-green. Its refined and intense quality comprises equal parts of green and yellow.
This tertiary color enhances feelings of happiness, joy, and cheerfulness. Wearing the pure variant of this color indicates that you are a risk-taker who is not frightened by challenges.
Besides that, it shows that you are an adventure seeker with a keen eye for creativity. It commands a presence that wards off negativity and pessimism.
Wearing pure chartreuse elevates your mood and fuels your sense of adventure. No wonder that sportswear is often bright yellow-green, right? With its distinctive nature, it leaves you and anyone looking in absolute awe.
Do you require a little pick-me-up? No problem, wearing bright and bold chartreuse might just be the boost you require. Given its innate positive characteristics, it rejuvenates your creative mind, giving you fresh ideas.
Wearing bright yellow-green is easiest to coordinate when worn only as a small accent piece. A canvas made up of mostly chartreuse is most probably too intense, though it's still a good choice for those who are daring.
Women, especially those that have an olive skin tone, can wear bright yellow-green quite easily. It usually looks quite flashy and definitely catches a person’s eye.
Men can get away with a good amount of chartreuse in their clothing. But, as a general rule, try to keep it at a minimum. The color works quite well on a pair of socks or as a pocket square to go with a dark suit.
Meanings of Light Yellow-Green
Tints of chartreuse are made by mixing in white with pure yellow-green. The resulting effect is known as light chartreuse.
Like most tints, the yellow-green tint is more suitable for women because of its soft and feminine appearance. Lighter chartreuse can also appeal to younger folks, but actually, anyone can pull it off in clothing. After all, age is only a state of mind, right?
The yellow-green tint depicts positive energy, playfulness, openness, and cheerfulness. The more white added, the lighter the tint, and the more fun and happy it gets. White tends to numb chartreuse and makes it less striking, though.
Variants of this yellow-green tint are often called lime, mindaro, or spring bud. But, there are many more names for the different stages of light chartreuse.
Tints of this hue ward off negativity and only emanate uplifting feelings and thoughts. Wearing chartreuse gives you that air of confidence. Not only that, it represents good times and prosperity.
Moreover, wearing yellow-green tints can show an openness of some sort as well as playfulness, and can give others the idea that you are approachable. It is a good color for spring because it is fun and it has an impressive outlook.
Tints of chartreuse are good clothing choices for accent and canvas pieces; however, they do better as accent pieces.
The symbolism of Dark Chartreuse Clothing
Shades of yellow-green are the colors that result from adding various amounts of black to the hue. The darker the shade, the more black and the more authority it commands. Shades of chartreuse represent seriousness, boldness, and stability.
Examples of this unique hue include olive green, pistachio, seaweed, and army. In any case, dark chartreuse is always a dirty, earthy kind of forest green.
When searching for new challenges, using one of the yellow-green shades as your clothing color could come in handy. Since the color we choose to wear unravels our personality, adorning oneself with a shade of chartreuse often reveals a certain level of open-mindedness while staying true to one’s core beliefs.
Interestingly, the unpredictable nature of dark yellow-green can sometimes reflect feelings of diversity and souring enthusiasm. Wearing it can sometimes also be associated with gloominess and depression. Another drawback of wearing dark chartreuse clothing is the uncertainty it can depict.
Contrary to the brighter and lighter versions of chartreuse, dark yellow-green is very suitable as a canvas color. Just think of olive or army green pants and you’ll understand why. The earthy nature of this color makes it easy to combine with many other colors which, in turn, makes it a good canvas color.
Olive green is a great color for trousers and jackets. It’s a great color to wear during fall/autumn since it goes very well with other fall colors like mustard, orange, dark red, and brown.
What Wearing Toned Chartreuse Clothes Can Mean
Adding gray to chartreuse gives you a tone of the hue. This unsaturated version lingers between the shade and the tint of the yellow-green hue.
These days, yellow-green tones are usually the go-to color interior designers use to create that zest of modern class in any room. Although they might still be slightly unconventional, the attractiveness of yellow-green tones is mostly undisputed.
The variations of yellow-green tones are more commonly known as moss, kombu green, and chelsea. Of course, there are many more names and grades for and of toned yellow-green, but let’s stick with just these three.
In business, wearing yellow-green tones can mean two converse things at once, though. Its yellow-gray element symbolizes youthfulness/freshness and a sense of urgency. Its green-gray element instills the practical nature of the message: stability, and control.
So which is the ultimate signal a yellow-green tone sends? Well, that’s a good question. We’d say: “A bit of both sides”. Toned chartreuse signals youthful ambition and is one of the most driving colors you can find.
In fashion, you can pull off accent as well as canvas pieces of chartreuse tones. They are obviously more muted than bright chartreuse which makes them “easier” to wear. This unsaturated state of the hue pairs well with many other colors. The more gray the tone is, the easier it is to match.
From watches and ties to dresses and pants, unsaturated yellow-green represents a cheery refined look that men and women can pull off effortlessly. Tones of this color reflect growth, joy, and creativity.
All Variations of Chartreuse Clothing
All colors affect a person's state of mind and emotions. Chartreuse is one of those colors that gives off a youthful splendor. It also portrays intuitive thinking, eccentricity, and creativity.
However, the negative repercussion of this color is people who are drawn to it may find it slightly overwhelming. Because of this, people who wear a lot of (mostly bright) chartreuse usually have high levels of anxiety.
Chartreuse portrays enthusiasm, creativity, growth, optimism, and a positive attitude. In fashion, chartreuse can be worn as both accent and canvas pieces. As a general rule of thumb though, the darker or more muted the color, the more acceptable the yellow-green is as a canvas.
For men, it's less overpowering to wear chartreuse as an accent piece, but women can wear it easily as a canvas, especially during spring or summer, to give a youthful look.
We recommend wearing chartreuse depending on the season anyway. Brighter and lighter versions are usually preferred during the warmer months of the year, whereas darker and more muted ones are great for late fall and winter.
Read our article on Seasonal Colors in Fashion for more details surrounding the topic of color seasonality.
Yellow-green has such an earthy feel that it pairs well with many other colors – even as a pure, bold hue that most find intimidating. But if you are brave enough to pull it off, it says a lot about you. Overall, chartreuse is a refreshing color that represents new life, new adventures, and new growth. In one word: ambition.
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What Does Turquoise Clothing Symbolize?
The blue-green shade of turquoise has a tranquil nature. For several years, many cultures associated it with immortality, nobility, and wisdom. In fashion, wearing turquoise symbolizes calmness, emotional balance, femininity, creativity, and sophistication.
Turquoise in Fashion and Clothing
When you think of turquoise, what's the first thing that comes to mind? It is either the gem or the color. Turquoise, closely related to cyan and aqua, is a mix of a primary (blue) and a secondary color (green).
Effortlessly combining the uplifting and tranquil nature of blue and the glorious natural splendor of green, the color turquoise (“blue-green”) reflects the balance the world creates and is usually linked to growth and new life. Now, what does turquoise clothing symbolize?
The Symbolism of Turquoise Clothing
Wearing turquoise clothing symbolizes many things. Some of the traits associated with the color turquoise are calmness of the mind, quiet, subtle power, wisdom, growth, emotional balance, femininity, sophistication, tranquility, wholeness, serenity, creativity, good luck, intuition, patience, and loyalty.
Blue-green, or otherwise turquoise, cyan, or aqua, is a calming but fun color.
Turquoise is a French word derived from the word “Turkish stone” (Turquoise -pierre) because the gem was first imported from there. However, the gemstone was first mined in Egypt, dating as far back as 6000 BC, where it was even used for tombstones.
The blue-green shade of turquoise has a tranquil nature. For several years, many cultures associated it with immortality, nobility, and wisdom.
In fashion, turquoise represents calmness, emotional balance, femininity, creativity, and sophistication. That said, how does the human psyche interpret turquoise and how can YOU use the following insights to your own benefit?
The Color Psychology of Turquoise
Color psychology is simply our perception of colors -how our minds process the colors we see- because colors have a way of communicating to (and reflecting) our moods.
Moreover, the color of the clothes we wear can have a profound impact on our actions and our psychological reaction. So how does our mind process turquoise?
Although our perception of colors is entirely subjective, turquoise is scientifically perceived as cold. It combines the properties of blue and green, which are both calm colors and create a balance. In our minds, turquoise creates an atmosphere of calmness, growth, creativity, purity, and love.
According to Empowered by Color, turquoise is also believed to enhance spirituality, clear thoughts, and open up the heart to possibilities. However, just like every good thing, it is important to wear it in moderation. Too much of it portrays emotional imbalance because it can make us over-analytical and fussy.
Turquoise opens a line of communication between what we say and how our hearts interpret it. In other words, it controls our emotions by creating balance and stability.
Turquoise “rejuvenates our spirits” when we are mentally stressed, tired, or just downright exhausted. Whether used on a wall or clothing, turquoise gives you a calm feeling that helps with clear thinking and decision making.
Effects of Pure (Prime) Blue-Green on Others
As the name implies, “prime turquoise” represents blue-green in its purest form (pure hue). Neither white, black, or gray has been added to it. Blue-green is located on the cold half of the color wheel, making it a cold color.
Pure blue-green, let’s call it prime turquoise, bright cyan or aqua, fosters creativity, critical thinking, and has the ability to put the mind at ease.
Because it creates a stimulating and influencing aura rather than a forceful and demanding outlook, various organizations use it as paint around the office to enhance employee developmental skills – albeit sparingly.
In addition, the color cyan is usually associated with calmness, serenity, creativity, friendship, tranquility, intuition, and even love. When worn, it also gives a person an aura of confidence and friendliness, making them seem more approachable.
Just think of the strong color of bright blue-green shorelines that radiate tranquility and serenity. This is exactly the effect cyan can have on people when they see others wearing it.
Bright turquoise or aqua can help public speakers concentrate and have clear thoughts. By calming the nervous system, it gives the speaker a sense of control over speech and personal expression. Print your keynotes on turquoise or wear a blue-green tie to get the effect it generates when you glance down to have a look.
Both women and men can wear pure turquoise accent pieces, but the scales are tipped in favor of women when it comes to wearing it as a canvas. If you intend to influence and control your environment creatively, then you should most definitely choose cyan. But, please do so subtly – wear a bright blue-green sweater at most and not more of the color.
A pullover of almost pure, prime blue-green. It stands out perfectly and when combined with the right accessories, it radiates style. | Socks: Super Fruit
The Symbolism of Dark, Light, and Muted Turquoise
Interpretations of Dark Blue-Green
Adding black to any color makes it a shade of the color in question. Across the blue-green spectrum, the shade of turquoise you get depends on the amount of black added.
In this article, we'll sometimes refer to the dark hues of turquoise as shades of turquoise. Shades of turquoise are derived from adding varying amounts of black to the original prime blue-green hue.
The color turquoise as we know and love it actually has trace amounts of black (and gray) added to it, making it a shade of blue-green. It is not actually a pure hue, but rather slightly darkened. In 2010, turquoise was named the official Pantone Color of The Year, making it very well known.
We also all know “dark turquoise”. We usually call it teal or petrol. Both are quite common colors in fashion, actually. They have been especially common for clothing in the past few years due to the trendiness of turquoise.
Shades of turquoise could also be found in some types of seashells or, more popularly, as the backdrop of certain Instagram influencers’ pictures.
The surfaces of deep seas and oceans could be considered a certain shade of turquoise because of their rich and deep turquoise color. According to Tina Sutton's and Bride M. Whelan's Book on Color Harmony, this is why blue-green shades tend to have a similar calm and quiet connotation. The same goes for when they’re worn as clothing.
This is not a suit someone would usually wear. It’s quite rare to see a turquoise suit - especially combined with orange accents. But, sometimes it’s good to be unusual.
Shades of turquoise enhance creativity and inspiration. They are colors of calmness, bringing relaxation and balance to the body. This is probably due to their close chromatic relationship with the ocean. The ocean, being part of nature, soothes the human soul, and that's what a shade of turquoise does as well. It soothes the body and soul with its calmness.
Insights Into What Light Blue-Green Can Symbolize
Light turquoise, which is a tint of blue-green, results from adding white to a pure blue-green hue. An example of a light turquoise is mint, but there are many other names for blue-green tints.
Mint, due to the addition of white, softens the already soft original appearance of cyan (or aqua) making it a very refreshing color – like a cold drink on a hot summer day.
The tint gives off a very cool feel when worn. It is creative and light-hearted, yet it can stand on its own due to its high individuality levels. Light blue-green is a fun and inspirational color that symbolizes truthfulness, trustworthiness, and style.
Mint can be incorporated into your beachwear when going sunbathing with friends during the summer, as it fits the beach's ambiance. This is why we all saw so many men’s bathing trunks in the color mint the past few years. It was (and for most of us still is) trendy!
However, it should be worn with caution for everyday looks. Too much of it could make you seem juvenile or unfocused. This is especially the case of you’re a man. Women can get away with wearing a lot of mint more easily.
The Symbolism of Turquoise Tones
When you add gray to turquoise, you get toned turquoise. It is an unsaturated version of blue-green between turquoise tint and turquoise shade. Turquoise tones, therefore, assimilate the properties of both blue-green tints and shades.
However, the tone you get from mixing in gray depends on the type (darkness or lightness) of gray added to it. Because gray is added to turquoise tone, it gives a muted or dull appearance. Depending on the person looking, a turquoise tone is usually considered sophisticated, professional, impulsive, or even playful. In contrast, it can be perceived as jealous and possessive – albeit rarely.
An example of a turquoise tone would be “aqua smoke” (wow!). There are many interesting names for different tones of blue-green – one crazier than the other. So, we simply call them tones of turquoise.
In clothing and fashion, turquoise tones can be pulled off as both canvas and accent pieces because they have a muted feel. Because of that, these colors are easy to wear and tend to look very pleasing.
Turquoise tones are very modern. Nowadays, they are often used in web design and furniture. Designers have been going nuts for blue-green tones for the past two or three years already, which is why we see them so often.
In design, turquoise tones are usually associated with structure, reliability, independence, and credibility and it is believed that they even promote spiritual development and engagement.
Turquoise in a Nutshell
More often than not, turquoise, cyan, aqua, teal, petrol, and mint are some of the most spectacular colors in the whole spectrum. Although they exude both questionable and favorable qualities, they all represent calmness, stability, friendship, open-mindedness, and even relaxation.
Sadly, the variations of blue-green can also symbolize immaturity, uncertainty, and emotional imbalance.
So, as long as you don’t overuse blue-green in your outfits, you should be fine. All tints, shades, and tones are quite simple to wear – especially as accents. And if you know how to match and combine these turquoise elements with other colors, you're bound to look smashing!
We suggest you read up on our articles concerning the topic of color clothing. We’re sure you’ll like this one:
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What Does Wearing the Color Orange Mean?
When wearing orange you give off a friendly, fun, creative, and bubbly vibe. Personality-wise, it indicates that you are a social person, and you are not afraid to be seen. But, orange can have many other meanings depending on its value, its brightness, or which colors you pair it with.
Wearing orange clothing can be a way to make a truly remarkable statement, as it could have a different interpretation for both the wearer and whoever is looking. So why choose orange? What does wearing the color orange mean?
The Symbolism of Orange
Wearing orange means you give off a friendly, fun, creative, and bubbly vibe. Personality-wise, it indicates that you are a social person, and you are not afraid to be seen. In sports, wearing orange depicts both mental and physical energy. Besides that, orange as a fruit, is known for being high in vitamin C. Maybe that’s the reason why the color symbolizes energy?
In light of all these qualities, orange is a magnificent and enthusiastic secondary color that emerges from mixing the boldness and passion of red and the freedom, optimism, and happiness of yellow.
What does the color orange symbolize and what does it mean if you wear it?
In fashion, orange is considered a confident, warm, happy, and energetic color. Although it might be tricky to pull off, when paired the right way, it is eye-catching and daring. It makes a bold statement that you are not afraid to be seen.
On an interesting side note: In 2013, orange became the official defining color chosen and worn for the gun violence prevention movement.
This is interesting because we all know that orange is also the color of U.S. prison inmates. Orange is the new black, right? Well, orange is slighty more eye-cathcing than black. Obviously, this is why they make the overalls orange in the first place.
According to Wolf Kahn, "orange is very blatant and vulgar. It makes you immediately start having feelings". In all honesty, we think this is a perfect summary of the orange color. So, should you wear orange?
The Meaning and Psychology of Orange
We all wear clothes in various colors and styles. And we choose and pair them together by considering what we prefer and what we feel comfortable wearing. We often wear certain colors, sometimes based on how we feel and what we hope to portray.
So, what does wearing the color orange mean? Orange is a color that provokes an immediate response. Some cultures consider it sacred, while others think of it as a color of royalty. In Asia, orange is the hue for the monks and holy men. It symbolizes a state of illumination and perfection.
Either way, according to verywellmind, orange is eye-catching, attention-grabbing, and commands a certain presence when it is worn.
It is warm, satisfying, and welcoming. It provokes a feeling of excitement and danger all at once. Why do you think we use orange in our logo?
For some, orange is closely associated with abundance and fertility. As the ancient Greek goddess of fruitful abundance, Pomona is often draped in its lustrous color.
Orange can mean things to different people. Colors are so effective that they can communicate your intention, as well as your state of mind. They even express things without you having to say a word.
From the monks wearing it in Asia to your favorite orange accessory, item of clothing in your closet, or even Cheetos; Wearing the color orange is an intense choice for anyone who intends to make a bold statement and get noticed. What’s more, wearing orange does so in a non-threatening, yet powerful way.
To fully grasp the concept of orange, you need to get to know the various different versions of the hue and what they represent.
Effects of Pure Orange on Others
The pure orange hue is orange in its truest form. Untouched and fully saturated. No other color has been added to it. No black, white, gray, or any other hue – just full-blown orange. Here are some of its effects:
The orange hue represents boldness, a daring persona, and a flair for adventure. This vibrant orange ranges from the runway fashion couture to the orange vest of construction workers and traffic cones, even to the orange fruit and Cheetos.
The presence of orange commands, and, when worn, gives off a warm, happy feeling. People interpret it as approachable and friendly.
Pure orange is also considered a spiritual color as it enhances meditation and evokes feelings of peace, probably due to the fact that the Dalai Lama dons it.
This hue is an intense form of the color that has a tendency to overpower other colors. So, when pairing it, you may want to do so carefully.
We suggest wearing bright orange as an accent color, rather than a canvas color. This is especially the case if you are a man. Women can pull off wearing only bright orange (like a dress) more easily. As a general rule of thumb: It’s easiest for dark-skinned people to wear orange because it suits their skin tone. More on matching clothing colors to your skin tone in another article.
If you’d like to learn more about how to use accent colors (like bright orange) correctly, we seriously suggest you read this article:
What do Light and Dark Oranges Mean?
Dark Orange
This variant of orange is referred to as a shade of orange. It indicates that black has been added to the original orange hue.
Dark orange or dusty orange is the color of autumn. It evokes that warm feeling of the holidays such as Halloween and Thanksgiving, the last warm days before the onset of winter.
Dark orange is also the color of a sunset.
Due to its association with holidays such as Halloween, it can sometimes be represented in a cartoony way in advertising or the media.
The color dark orange is not as aggressive as pure orange. It's a more somber color and can be paired nicely with neutral colors when picking out an outfit.
In advertising, orange is preferably used seasonally. It's used in advertisements that have to do with autumn for that warm homely feel. Therefore, it might not come as a surprise that dark orange should also be worn primarily in fall.
Very dark orange can almost look like brown, in fact. This is why it gets mistaken very often for being a “warm brown” - the color of fallen autumn leaves at the end of the season.
This is dark orange. It looks like brown doesn’t it? We left the orange accents in the picture just so you can see the resemblance of both colors.
Very dark orange is very easy to use for clothing since it goes well with almost anything. It’s great as a canvas color due to its resemblance to brown. Try wearing dark orange during the later months of the year (if you live in the northern hemisphere) to get others into that festive Thanksgiving mood.
Light Orange
The lighter variant of the color orange is derived by adding white to the orange hue, giving us an orange tint.
Light orange, also known as tangerine or baby carrot, is much more soothing than pure orange and dark orange. It's often considered a feminine color because of its calmness.
It is the color of communication. Light orange is worn in most seasons, but mostly in early spring, where you can pair it with baby blue for that calm, innocent look. Here are a pair of socks to go well with a nice light orange shirt or so:
Orange tints are associated with feelings of calmness, innocence, softness, and femininity, but men can also wear it, especially with a sharp navy-blue, for example.
Try wearing an orange tint as a canvas – it could be fun! Go for a nice pair of shorts in light orange for the beginning of summer or a funky light orange T-shirt. Alternatively, you can simply wear orange tints as accents for a slight touch of innocence.
Orange tones
Orange tones are the variants of orange that are made by mixing in the various shades of gray. The feelings orange tones evoke depend on the shade or tint of gray it was mixed with. Some example names for toned orange colors would be rust, iron or dirt - depending on the darkness of the gray added.
Unsaturated orange, as they are also sometimes called, are midway between the shades and tints of orange and they are considered calmer than bright, pure orange.
The darker the tone of orange, the more dominating it tends to be. Wearing orange tones shows strength, energy, motivation, creativity, and enthusiasm.
If you need a little something to brighten up your day, then you should consider adding a little orange tone to your outfit. Although, when you do this, you have to be careful because unsaturated orange can also be perceived as manipulative, self-centered, and proud.
That said, in fashion, when it comes to wearing orange tones, it is vital to strike a balance that is comfortable for you but still sends the right message you intend to convey.
![The “rusty” look of these orange toned pants looks fine by itself but somehow distracts from the blue elements in the outfit. Why? Find out in our article about the 10 Golden Rules of Color in Fashion [link below]. | Socks: Spicy Chili](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5d91f9da52210569ede7ff3a/1603194701766-FE62RP23KHRN981T5M78/COLORBUX+Blue+Shirt+Dark+Toned+Orange+Pants+1080p.jpg)
The “rusty” look of these orange toned pants looks fine by itself but somehow distracts from the blue elements in the outfit. Why? Find out in our article about the 10 Golden Rules of Color in Fashion [link below]. | Socks: Spicy Chili
Even though unsaturated orange is somewhat eye-catching and fickle, orange-toned clothing can be worn as accents as well as canvas pieces depending on what you pair them with.
So, if your intention is to boost your own and others’ creativity, you should definitely try wearing orange tones to the office.
Interpretation of The Color Orange
The color orange is a warm color. When paired with yellow, it evokes the feeling of a campfire: safe and warm. Orange is the color of joy and creativity – a reflection of the yellow that was used in creating it in the first place. It's also a very bright and bold color, just like red, but without the harshness.
Despite the appearance of orange, according to shiftelearning it “can be welcoming and mood-lifting for learners, which in turn promotes comfort and improves neural (brain) functioning”.
In the food industry, restaurants typically use this color to evoke the feelings of hunger, warmth, and competence in their customers. Unfortunately, in advertising, it was voted the cheapest looking color. Nevertheless, the color orange is a beautiful color in all its variant.
Key Takeaways of How to Wear Orange
Orange originates from two strong primary colors and is equally perceived as a strong and vibrant color.
It is attention-getting, and regardless of it being perceived as cheap, it's often used in advertising.
Orange is also a color of comfort, creativity and autumn. But, it’s meaning changes depending on the amount of black, gray or white added to it.
With so many positives, it's hard to believe that it still has negative perceptions. However, here are some not-too-positive perceptions about orange:
Apart from being looked at as cheap and unsophisticated, too much orange often provokes feelings of insincerity, a self-centered personality and can even cause a lack of motivation.
Due to its affiliation with cartoons and holidays like Halloween, it's also seen as a childish color. As such, adults tend to shy away from it, especially in the workplace environment.
All in all, orange is a very daring color and, as such, should be worn with confidence and nothing short of it. Just remember to pair it up nicely.
Just remember that it’s not the best choice to wear to the office. Orange is considered to be the least professional-looking clothing color due to the reasons discussed above.
We have many articles on the topic of color clothing. If you are unsure how to match and mix colors in clothing, we suggest you check them out.
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What Does Wearing Purple Symbolize?
Wearing purple symbolizes royalty, grandeur, independence, wisdom, creativity, and many other things. The association with wealth is also still made today because it is still a royal color. Beware though, for purple can also symbolize arrogance.
Anchored in history, purple was used to distinguish the wealthy from the common folk. This was largely due to the fact that the extraction process of that beautiful rich color took a longer amount of time, and as such, was only affordable and accessible to the wealthy.
However, a lot has changed since then: So what does wearing purple symbolize?
What Does Purple Symbolize?
Wearing purple symbolizes royalty, grandeur, independence, wisdom, devotion, extravagance, pride, and creativity, just to mention a few. And yes, the association with wealth is still made today. Beware though, for purple can also symbolize arrogance.
Some even believe that purple can also be associated with a higher sense of self, spirituality, and one’s alignment with the universe and what it represents.
Prime purple - more often called magenta - has many meanings that change depending on how the hue is shaded, tinted or toned.
On the inauguration day of President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris and many other women chose to wear purple outfits. They did so because the color purple symbolizes loyalty and trust. This comes from the association with royalty and power.
The color purple can be seen expressed in different forms and variations in nature. From the purple sea urchin in Mexico to some variant of cauliflower, this beautiful color graces nature in all its varied forms.
Unlike the other colors we've dealt with representing the emotions of anger or jealousy, purple is the color of mystery. How, you might ask?
Purple is derived from a purposeful mixture of blue and red; somehow, the calmness and boldness of each color compliment the other without the overwhelming distraction of standing out individually.
Each color you wear has its meaning and says something about the wearer. In the world of advertising and fashion, the color purple is seen as a soothing and vibrant color and usually symbolizes luxury as well as the expression of femininity in women. That said, how do we interpret purple?
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The Meaning and Psychology behind Purple
What it means to clothe in the color purple has evolved over the years as people no longer predominantly associate the color with thoughts of royalty and the elite. However, regardless of how much the perception of the color has evolved, not much has changed in retrospect.
Purple as a color has a profound effect on how we perceive different feelings and emotions. People over the years have described the color as giving the feelings of mystery, spirituality, royalty, femininity, and even mourning. It is often seen as a rare and unique color, and this is largely due to the fact that it rarely occurs in nature.
Wearing purple can have a psychological effect as it possesses calming and stimulating properties, which benefits us by putting us in the right frame of mind. It could also decrease blood pressure and heart rate because of its bluish undertone.
The surreal suit. Yes, in this image we manipulated the colors. Nobody wears a purple outfit like this - unless you’re looking to stand out more than ever necessary!
According to sensationalcolor, it fosters creativity by awakening our senses while promoting the inner peace necessary to make intuitive, insightful observations. Purple creates a harmonious balance of awareness and peace.
In our previous post, we learned that in China, the color yellow was associated with wealth and grandeur, while in ancient Rome, it was the color purple that was worn by the elite. It goes without saying that different perceptions of the color purple have more to do with the culture of the people being asked, than anything else.
EFFECTS OF PURE PURPLE HUE (Magenta)
Prime Purple, more often actually called magenta, is purple in its purest and most saturated form. This is why it is so bright.
Traditional purple, like the color most of us identify as “purple” or “violet”, is actually a darkened version of prime purple (magenta). We’ll dig into this topic more in the following sections of this article.
The color purple in its purest and truest form (pure hue) is seen in many flowers. It is commonly associated with bubble gum, loyalty, mystery, imagination, energy, and creativity. As mentioned before, due to the fact that it was so hard to obtain the pigment, it was mostly used by the wealthy to show prominence.
This is the purple (or violet) we all know and love, isn’t it? Well, technically this is prime purple mixed with black…
Violet, or the darkened purple, as we mentioned before, is the classic color for royalty. Let’s just keep on talking about this version of “magenta” or “prime purple”, since it’s the one most people relate to.
From now on, let’s call this darker version of the prime “purple”.
Purple (the darker version), as a color being indicative of social status, wasn't just restricted to ancient times. On the contrary, it is tied to the perception of royalty carried on even to the late 20th century when it was seen as a color of choice to get tickets to Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation in 1953.
In terms of creativity and imagination, a study was carried out in 2005 about how the color of a questionnaire could affect survey response rates*, and the results showed that purple was the most effective color in both genders and across different age groups. People seemed to be more willing to properly answer the questions in a questionnaire if its color was purple.
Dreams and imagination are often associated with the color purple. It has even been said that using too much purple in advertising is bad because it can make the mind wander.
Purple is also the color of magic and mystery. Ever so often it has been used to represent magical happenings in media. When we think of what colors a magician wears we instantly think of black with dark red or… purple. See?
Incorporating purple in your clothing will make you appear regal and mysterious. People might actually be surprised due to the high confidence and prominence you exhume.
However, too much purple brings out the qualities of impatience, irritability, and arrogance. So, make sure to not overdo it.
In Thailand, purple is usually worn by widows in mourning. In the United States, the purple heart award is used to honor soldiers wounded in battle. As such, this color is preferably worn for more somber events.
What Does Purple Mean Sexually?
The sexual symbolism of purple is also something that is very culturally dependent. In the western world, the color purple symbolizes sexual frustration. This has to do with its association with royalty and mystery.
Now, this doesn’t mean you look bitter or sexually frustrated when you wear purple. It always depends on what kind of purple you wear.
As you’ll learn in the next few paragraphs, this magnificent color can have many different meanings depending on the amount of black, white, or gray added to it. Also, where you are in the world and which people you’re surrounded by change purple’s symbolism completely.
For instance, a muted, light purple has absolutely no connotation to sexual frustration in South America. In North America, on the other hand, the resulting color “old lavender” looks exactly as the name says: old (and maybe slightly frustrated).
Effects of Light And Dark Purples
DARK PURPLE Variants
Most commonly referred to as shades of purple are the darkened variants of the color purple. Dark purples are what you get when you mix purple with black. An example of this would be the powerful royal purple.
Dark purple is a stronger variant of purple that evokes intense emotions in both the wearer and observer. It can enhance feelings of gloom, sadness, and frustration. On the other hand, it also exudes much more power than the other variations of the color.
Some interesting facts: Purple (as a word) has been incorporated in wordplay. Purple is associated with other words in the production of meaning. For example, "Purple prose" is often used to refer to a highly imaginative literary work, while "purple haze" refers to euphoria or confusion, which might be drug-induced. It is even the color worn to create epilepsy awareness.
Dark purple is an elegant, yet mysterious color. Pair it with some bright and quirky elements and you can easily get rid of its connotation of sadness. | Socks: Shrooms
Apparently, purple even creates some sort of illusion as to how we imagine and perceive the world around us, rather than how the world really is.
It is truly the color of mystery and wearing purple (especially dark purple) symbolizes just that – albeit with a tinge of sadness mixed in.
LIGHT PURPLE Variations
A light purple hue is simply created by mixing purple with white at varying degrees, creating a tint. The more white is added, the lighter the final product.
Examples of light purple include lavender and lilac, which are considered "the grown-up pink".
Unlike dark purple, light purple or lilac is a rather feminine color.
The colors lilac and lavender offer the wearer the feeling of uniqueness, happiness, and a sense of being special without the intense mystery of saturated purple. They can even symbolize life and energy in some cultures.
Tinted Purple, due to its strong resemblance to the color pink, is also considered a feminine color, evoking the feeling of sensuality. In advertising, light purple is often used with pink to display feminine products.
Similarly, lighter purple tints are seen as a more mature color of choice as opposed to choosing pink.
If you’d like to know more about how dark or light clothing affect perception of the self, we suggest you read our article on the topic:
Purple Tones
When you mix gray and purple you get a purple tone. Depending on the amount of gray you add, the purple gets duller. Purple tones are rather uncommon - especially in clothing. They are simply not colors that look very good for (and on) most people.
It is generally not a good idea to wear a much unsaturated (grayed out) purple. The clothing you wear in these colors can seem cheap and just plain old. They have quite the opposite symbolism to life and energy.
If you are male, we suggest avoiding purple tones in your clothing altogether. If you’re female though, a tad of unsaturated purple can even look interesting. Try it out and find out for yourself. You might like what you see.
The Color Purple in a Nutshell
What does wearing purple symbolize? Purple is a color that is as complex as it is anchored in history. Regardless of the fact that times have changed (and so has fashion), it is still often associated with royalty and social prominence. And yet, wearing too much of the color might make you seem arrogant
Purple enhances the imagination and creativity. In crystal therapy, purple amethyst is used to unblock creativity, increase imagination, remove spiritual obstacles, and reawaken the learning of new things. However, too much creativity increases feelings of moodiness.
Even in mainstream media, purple is often used to depict magic and mystery in movie scenes, in theaters, at concerts, and well, basically everywhere suitable.
Purple is definitely a very versatile color. It is regal, mysterious, and much more.
INTERESTING SUGGESTIONS:
What Does It Mean if You Wear Green?
The color green has many meanings. We associate green with nature, health, and peace, to name a few. But, green can also have negative connotations - especially when shaded. In this article, we tell you all there is to know about green in color psychology for fashion.
When it comes to clothing, the colors you wear can reflect your personality and even desires. The effects of these colors are not evident at first glance except for anyone actively looking out for them. Instead, the colors we wear send out subtle messages to everyone around us. This occurrence is the reason why everyone should be conscious of whatever colors they wear, for they all have meaning.
The symbolism of Green in Fashion
The color green excels as the color of nature in all its glory and splendor. It's a color that represents peace, growth, and balance – also in clothing and fashion. Shifting its shade, tint, or saturation can change what green clothing means, however.
When you wear darker greens you seem and feel calm and at ease. On the other hand, wearing brighter and lighter greens makes you look and feel more energetic and lively.
Green is calming to the eye and never too loud to the senses, but that doesn’t mean it’s a color you should underestimate. One thing to remember is that the meaning of this nature-friendly color can drastically shift depending on the context.
Also, according to Bourncreative, excess green can cause an overall feeling of laziness, placidity, sluggishness, and even depression. While too little of it can cause apathy or fear of rejection. Intriguing color, right?
Green has many meanings in color psychology. But what does it mean if you wear green?
On the color wheel, green is the direct opposite of red, and this anonymity extends even to what the two colors represent.
Where red stands for passion, energy, sexuality, and risks, green represents calmness, reservation, and harmony. This color is the balanced opposition to the well-energized red.
What it Means When You Wear a Pure Green Hue
Fully saturated green, commonly known as grass green, is regarded as the color of money. Wearing green in its pure form signals that you are confident in yourself in addition to giving you a healthy and natural appearance.
This type of green is plentiful as you can find it in fields, forests, and well, basically everywhere in nature. When you wear it, you are giving your subconscious a boost of confidence while projecting an environmentally friendly aura.
So, it might not come as a surprise that if you are someone who mostly opts for green clothing, you are someone who wants to be loved and accepted in society.
Also, as a color that is more on the quiet and calm side rather than the passionate and energetic side, make sure to always look to balance it with other colors. Try a pair of Kiwi Kicks if you feel like mixing up your outfits with some bright green:
A bright, fully saturated green hue works best as an accent color in clothing – especially for men. Wearing bright green clothing (as a canvas) is easier for women than it is for men. It’s not really common to see a guy walking around in a bright green suit - it’s much more likely to see ladies in saturated green dresses.
Effects of the Light Versions of Green
Light variations of green include pale green and light green. Out of the two, light green is the one with the positive effects and symbolism. The other, pale green, is mostly perceived negatively.
Younger people like green tints because they represent youthfulness, playfulness, and naivety. These versions of green are filled with energy, positive energy at that. Green tints are colors that grant clarity to any mind bogged by negativity.
Pale green is the color you find on plants undergoing new growth. Due to this, it represents inexperience, immaturity, and also youthfulness. However, this type of green is not entirely on the wrong side. It is seen as a color of new beginnings and fresh starts.
The symbolism of the Dark Versions of Green
The dark versions of green include forest green, jade green, emerald green, and yes, dark Green. These aspects of the “color of balance and nature” are not all positive. Let us tell you what we mean.
Forest green, the darkest shade of green on this list, is the contemporary color for peace. Forest green symbolizes the power to overcome oppositions and challenges. It also stands for empathy and care concerning the emotions of those around you.
However, forest green can also stand for deceit and betrayal. However, this is more so attributed to the color “olive”, which is also a shaded version of green albeit mixed with a bit of yellow, making it actually a dark yellow-green.
This dark green suit isn’t suitable for every occasion - except of course for St. Patrick’s Day!
Jade green is an utterly upbeat variation of dark green. This shade is the color of trust, diplomacy, spiritual generosity, and confidentiality. It is also the color enhancing the aura of enlightenment, wisdom, and knowledge.
Emerald green, the color of wellbeing in material and emotional aspects, is also a color that represents inspiration and wealth. This slightly shaded version of green projects an air of positivity and motivation.
Dark green is the version of green with the most negativity. Have you ever heard of the saying “green with envy”? This is the side of green that stands for jealousy and resentment. In addition to this, it also represents greed, excessive ambition, and selfish desires.
In case you are feeling a little confused about choosing from the dark or light versions of green, check out this article on dark or light colors in clothing.
Meanings of Toned and Unsaturated Greens
When considering the effects that the various tones and unsaturated versions of green have on others, it is good to put somethings into consideration. A general rule when it comes to colors is that the darker it becomes, the more it connotes the sense of authority.
People find the unsaturated versions of green to be youthful, playful, and sometimes impulsive. Apart from this, those tones of green are generally considered healthy and environmentally friendly.
Toned, or unsaturated greens, are perceived as independent, self-confident, and socially active colors. These versions are also associated with negative personality traits such as jealousy, selfishness, greed, and possessiveness.
When you put on green toned clothes, the message you send to others is that you are a likable person who gets along with others. It also helps in projecting an aura of positivity and emotional maturity.
Also, according to About Colors, painting a room or a workspace green helps to create a calm and stress-free atmosphere. Maybe the same could also be said for wearing green clothing? This would be a topic to research further.
Cultural Meanings of Green in and Outside of Clothing
Generally, green is a positive color. In several cultures around the world, the color stands for a lot of amazing things. It represents ecology, environmental awareness, and it is also the color for new beginnings;
green is the go color of the traffic lights, and also the color of the play symbol in games and the entertainment industry.
In the east, green is associated with eternal life, fertility, health, youth, and prosperity. Although, in Chinese culture, for example, wearing a green hat as a man is forbidden as it suggests that his partner is cheating on him.
Western cultures reguard green as the color of money, freshness, immaturity, and sadly also jealousy. The color is also linked to prosperity, good luck, and fortune. Plus, when you combine green with red elements, it usually represents Christmas.
It is never a bad idea to use other colors to complement your green clothing, as you can see in our article on the “Ten Golden Rules for Color in Fashion”. In that article, you will learn how to combine colors easily to always put together outfits that are spot-on!
There are also times when wearing green makes others feel comfortable around you because you project a sense of “home sweet home”.
Conversely, if you are considering picking a color for a job interview, avoid making green the dominant color as it will give off a sense of complacency.
If the occasion is a date, rest assured that picking the right shade of green will project an aura of serenity, comfort, and a sense of friendliness that is subtle as opposed to, let’s say yellow. This is because, although yellow is the color of friendship, it is the loudest of all colors. Therefore, you should look to wear colors that “whisper”, and not “scream” at your companion’s senses.
There are many things you can do with the color green in your clothing. Just make sure, not to overdo it. Try wearing darker greens as canvas colors and lighter or brighter versions as accents.
If you’re still not sure what to think about this wonderful color, or you simply need more info, we suggest you read up on our other articles. Here are some suggestions that could fit your query. Thanks for reading!
What Does Yellow Clothing Represent?
What are the meanings of yellow clothing and what does it represent? Color psychology can tell us a lot about the color yellow and all its variations (shades, tints, etc.). Let's discover what signals you send others by wearing this brilliant and fun color!
All the canaries, bananas, and daffodils of the world scream one thing - yellow. Just like red, the color yellow is one that can easily be spotted and that grabs a lot of attention. Unlike red though, yellow is generally more of a happy color.
However, that's not all there is to say about yellow. In this blog post, we will go over everything. Well, maybe only everything about the effects of the different variations of yellow in clothing.
The color yellow represents:
Yellow clothing represents joy, happiness, positivity, and honor, but can also mean cowardice, childish youthfulness, or caution. It is therefore a color to only use smartly when it comes to fashion and clothing. Wearing light yellow can also make you look more youthful and healthy.
In the following article, we’ll explain a great deal more about what yellow clothing represents. Hopefully, you will get some “light bulb moments” on how and when to use yellow in your personal style.
What does the color yellow represent in clothing and fashion?
Now, if you've been following this series on color psychology, you should know by now that every color has both positive and negative associations. These are the two binary feelings people can get looking at the color yellow.
Then again, it all depends on the variation of the hue. Basically, it is all color psychology.
So, by keeping this in mind, you will better equip yourself for when and where not to wear yellow clothing. All this will make more sense as you read on.
The Symbolism of Yellow Clothing
The color psychology of yellow - what does that have to do with your fashion sense?
If you're planning on having some yellow in your wardrobe, then quite frankly, it has a lot to do with your fashion sense. Let's look at what science has to say about the psychology behind the color yellow:
Yellow is linked to stimulating deep thinking and encouraging creativity, as this study on color and psychological functioning suggests. That is great, but it's not all.
Another positive benefit of yellow is it makes one a happier person. However, there is a tendency to express feelings of frustration and anger if you stay in yellow rooms for too long (controversy alert).
As with many warm hues, yellow represents happiness and joy, making it an ideal color to convey an “easy-going” aura. For such an effect, it doesn’t even have to be used to a large degree.
With that said, yellow isn't everybody's favorite color for some of the reasons above.
The good news is that you can find ways to implement it into your outfits and use the effects to your advantage. You will be able to achieve this by understanding how each variant of yellow works.
Welcome to the color psychology of yellow!
The meanings of the Pure Yellow Hue
The yellow “hue” you could say is the “unadulterated” version of the color. It is yellow in its purest form. Nothing added, nothing subtracted - it is the original.
Some examples of the yellow hue are canary yellow, or vivid yellow.
Common feelings or emotions associated with this form of yellow are hope, freshness, positivity, intelligence, honor, and loyalty.
Wearing this hue can get you tons of attention both during the day and night. Yellow will help you stand out.
Just like red, this form of yellow might be too much for some people to handle. That's where the shades, tints, and tones come in handy.
It might also not come as a surprise that yellow clothing is sold more often in summer than in winter, as this study suggests. In general, warm color clothing is more popular during warm seasons. And yellow, being the most joyful warm color, is a great one to wear in summer.
The big pro of this pure hue is that people will see you as someone who is massively energetic and super fun. The downside about it, even though it doesn't really matter, is people will tend to see you as a less serious person.
So tip number one - wear this variation of yellow when you know you are ready to bring out your bright, energetic side.
Tip number two - it is not an everyday color to wear as a canvas, so wear it only rarely and sparingly.
Tip number three - it is excellent as an accent color, so you can add a bit to spice up your entire outfit. Check out our “Very Cherry” socks if you’re in the mood for a yellow accent piece.
All these tips are well and great, but if you want to know what colors match right with yellow or color-matching in general, the 10 Golden Rules For Color In Fashion are your best to learn it all.
The Symbolism of Yellow Tints
The light versions of yellow, also known as yellow tints, are obtained by mixing white and yellow in varying proportions. As a result of this mixture, they look pale and not as eye-catching as the yellow hue. Examples of yellow tints include light yellow, sand, banana mania, and half-life.
Common associations with these colors are openness, happiness, creativity, cheerfulness, and (childish) fun. However, one negative association with these variants of yellow is cowardice.
Yellow tints are great as accent pieces since they add a tinge of color in a quirky way. Beware of wearing yellow tints as canvases, though. You’ll be seen as innocent and playful. This is partially why it’s a great canvas color for young women.
Did you know that a yellow tint has made it to the top of the most trending colors list in the year 2021? That’s right - Pantone’s Color of The Year 2021 is “Illuminating”. Check out our article on the topic of all of the year’s trending colors in fashion.
Also, yellow tints are especially useful if you want to look younger and more vital. Learn more in our article on which clothing colors make you look more youthful.
Yellow Shades Represent
Shades of yellow, also known as dark yellows, are another variant of the yellow color. They are the result of mixing black and yellow together to various shades. Examples include “lion”, dark yellow, guacamole, and honey.
Shades of yellow aren't as expressive as those in their hue, but they are still attention-grabbing. They have a more masculine quality and are a bit on the dull side.
Depending on the amount of sheen or shimmer in the piece of clothing, dark yellow can even appear to be golden. Here’s an example for reference:
A dark yellow (gold) suit. This is a rather rare and not really office-suitable look, but hey… | Socks: The Light Stripes
Darker yellows are also more vibrant compared to their tint and tone counterparts. They also create a sense of control and flamboyance, but can also mean caution, cynicism, and jealousy.
Very dark yellows work well as canvas pieces. If a serious and approachable look is what you are going for, then these colors will work perfectly. Dark yellow clothing represents so many things, but it is rarely seen.
Effects of Toned Yellows
Yellow tones are those that border between their tints and shades. They are produced by mixing gray with the yellow hue. As a result, they get combination qualities of both their tint and shade counterparts.
Examples of yellow tones are sidecar, schoolbus, cyber, and flax. You can say they are the least vibrant of the bunch, but that doesn't mean they don't look appealing. In fact, it will be a lot easier for you to put on yellow-toned clothing than anything in pure yellow.
Yellow tones can work well as both canvas and accent pieces since they are right in the middle of dark and light yellows.
Some associations with yellow tones are practical, stable, indifferent, control, and (in some ways) elegance.
What The Color Yellow represents - In Short
For most people, yellow isn't a favorite, and only 5% prefer it.
However, in Asian cultures, such as those of the Japanese and Indian people, yellow represents luxury, nobility, bravery, and wealth. In China, yellow is known as the Imperial color and symbolizes wisdom, glory, and happiness. Although, in modern-day China, it is associated with adult entertainment...
In Western Europe, yellow has some pretty negative connotations. For instance, it represents envy in Germany, while in France, it takes on the meaning of weakness and betrayal.
In general, yellow isn't really the color most men go for, and it is sometimes seen as a color for children or teenagers. Overall, it is not a color for serious nor formal occasions.
Additionally, not everyone looks good in yellow while others do. This is a result of their underlying skin tone, which determines the kinds of colors that flatter their looks the best.
To determine your underskin tone and what colors work best for you, subscribe to our mailing list to learn of any upcoming articles concerning skin tone.
So, in short, yellow can be an “explosive” color without even intending to be. It's a very in-your-face color. Depending on your personality, that won't be much of a problem if you are an extrovert. But if you are an introvert, you may find it a bit hard donning the "color of sunshine."
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What Does the Color Blue Mean in Clothing?
The color blue can mean tranquility or seriousness and a bunch of other things in between. Blue has a wide range of meanings, especially if shaded or tinted. Depending on the variation, wearing blue can say a lot of things about you.
Listening to Blues isn’t that bad, and neither is wearing a blue piece in your outfit. Today, we’re looking at what the color blue means in clothing, and its psychological effects on people. And no, it’s not some kind of hoodoo thing. Or is it?
Whether it is or not, your goal for today is to gain knowledge on the meaning of the color blue in clothing. As you learn, your next step is developing an understanding of how you can apply it in your own style.
Blue in Clothing Psychology
What Does the Color Blue Mean in Clothing?
The color blue can mean tranquility or seriousness and a bunch of other things in between. On the one hand, blue is uplifting - it can literally put a smile on your face. On the other hand, the color blue can represent something traditional and serious. Thus, blue has a wide range of meanings in clothing – especially if shaded or tinted.
The color blue is calming and soothing, but what does it mean in clothing and fashion?
You are probably asking: “Why would one color have so many meanings?” Our answer to you is, yes, it is one color, but a color with many varieties.
For instance, we have the light blues, the dark ones, the toned blues, and the pure blue hue itself.
As you’ll find out more in this article, the different versions of blue will connote mixed feelings and meanings in our minds.
A good thing when it comes to the color blue is you can never go wrong. It’s one of the most comfortable colors to wear, right after the other “neutrals”: black, gray, and white.
And there is no doubt that the color blue is the most popular color for both men and women of all ages. If you ask ten people what their favorite color is, the most frequent answer you’ll get is blue. This is especially the case with adults.
I hope you are excited to learn a thing or two about the meaning of blue in clothing. Super! Let’s get straight into it.
Effects of Pure blue Hue
The blue hue is the color blue in its fully-blown saturated state. In this state, blue has a lot of intensity, and you could say it’s ‘colorful’ or vivid compared to the other versions.
On the color wheel, the blue hue is positioned in the cold/cool half. Thus, it’s a cold color. To get a better understanding of the concept of cold colors, you can check out the article in the link above.
Some associations of the blue hue include calm, intelligence, sincerity, and confidence.
In nature, we have the sky and ocean, which are both blue. These create a sense of calmness and security.
The color blue is also said to lower blood pressure and encourage intelligence according to this study on the effects of color on college students. In another study, researchers posit blue as a booster for creativity.
If your goal is to have people perceive you as intelligent, calm, sincere, or all three, then having something blue in your outfit is an excellent place to start.
We know we said you could never go wrong with blue, but putting it on in full saturation can be tricky for men.
However, women can easily get away with wearing clothes in saturated blue. In fact, generally, women look a lot better wearing mid to fully saturated colors – but that shouldn’t stop the guys from going full-throttle.
For most men, pieces of clothing in vivid blue work well as accent pieces. These include ties, shoes, scarfs, wristwatches, and socks, of course.
Effects of Light Blue
Light versions of the color blue include baby blue, blue raspberry, pale blue, electric sheep, blue bolt, etc. The list can go on and on, but let’s leave it at ones already mentioned.
So, to get a light version of blue, white is mixed with blue. This results in a lighter variant of blue, which, in general, is referred to as a blue tint.
Being a combination of both blue and white, light versions of blues share a blend of properties of both colors. For instance, the color white is associated with purity, cleanliness, and openness. These properties are, in turn, expressed in lighter blues. Thus, lighter blues create feelings of peace, friendliness, approachability, youth, and loyalty.
Here’s a nice pair of COLORBUX socks that use a light blue hue:
Wearing a light blue piece in your outfit will make you stand out as easy-going, laidback, calm, and trustworthy. Lighter blues can work as both a canvas - a ripped denim jacket and jeans - or as an accent piece: a beanie.
Effects of the Dark Blues
Now, we come to the dark versions of the color blue. These are technically called shades of blue. And if you have guessed it already, they are made by mixing any amount of black to a blue base, i.e., the blue hue.
On appearance, shades of blue strike the eye as elegant and sophisticated.
Those are just two of the qualities borrowed from black. Other meanings and associations of blue shades are trustworthiness, authority, intelligence, confidence, and power.
Wearing a navy blue suit for a formal occasion would make a memorable impression. It will be a fantastic choice if you want to break from the regular black suit.
In fact, the color might even be a better choice for a suit.
Navy Blue is always a very nice color for a suit. It goes well with many different accent colors (like pink). | Socks: Pine-Able
Most people love dark blues, and there are so many ways you could wear them apart from the usual suit-and-tie outfit. For example, wearing dark blue as a turtle-neck, a trilby, or a jacket are all viable options.
Examples of dark versions of blue are midnight blue, navy blue, and dark blue. Midnight blue is the deepest followed by navy blue. You could easily mistake them for the other. But with enough exposure to them, you would develop the eye to identify one from the other.
Effects of Toned Blues
As the name suggests, toned versions of blue are those that are a mixture of blue and gray.
Since gray is a color between white and black, blue tones, by default, have some qualities of both colors. Obviously, the type of gray will determine the different tones of blue.
Blue tones can also be referred to as unsaturated: they have a muted or dull feel compared to other versions.
There are four different tones of blue in this image. The shirt color is the most saturated of the bunch. | Socks: Spicy Chili
Now, these versions of blue, depending on the context, could mean sophistication for you and detachment for someone else. Less gray gives an elegant feel, while less blue creates an overall passive appearance.
Other feelings associated with these kinds of blues are professionalism and seriousness.
Examples of blue tones are blue-gray, iceberg, cadet gray, cool gray, and shadow blue.
Blue tones can be perfect as canvas pieces while using a more vibrant color as an accent.
The Meaning of Blue in Other Cultures
Blue is the color most people, societies, and countries favor around the globe. It’s even represented in 53% of all flags in the world.
Fun fact: One of 2021’s most trending colors is French Blue.
So far, the meanings described here pertain more to Western culture. For instance, feeling blue means being in a sad state.
In religion, blue represents love and immortality for the Hindus, and for the Jews, it’s a symbol of divinity and holiness. In the many Middle Eastern regions, blue means protection, repelling evil spirits. For Africans, blue signifies harmony and wisdom.
Meaning of the Color Blue - In Short
In conclusion, blue is the most comfortable color to work with on the color wheel. You can wear it to show a confident look using navy blue. And for an original appearance, strong Egyptian blue will work amazingly.
Of course, it could connote a negative meaning, such as reserved, sad, or distant. In fact, most colors have such negative meanings attached to them.
The possibilities of using blue pieces in your outfit are endless. As always, explore, experiment, and have fun. There’s no real “wrong” when it comes to blue. And if there is, please tell us!
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What Does the Color Red Mean When You Wear It?
Red is the color that signifies energy. It is useful for creating attention, attraction, and awareness. Depending on the shade, tint, or tone, red can have completely different meanings, though - especially when you wear it.
The first thing you should get right whenever you put on an outfit is that it should fit you. That is the number one priority in fashion. The second most important priority you should be mindful of is the color of the pieces of your outfit.
Red is one of the rather bold colors that sends a lot of messages, but what does the color red mean when you wear it?
Red is one of the two most vibrant hues in nature and on the color wheel.
The color red is powerful and strong. What meanings does it have in clothing and fashion?
For years, the color red has been an attribute of fascination throughout many civilizations, and in different cultures. Now, in the modern era, it has been used countless times and in so many ways because of its unique qualities. Why? And which qualities, do you say?
Well, the three major areas where the color red is used abundantly are design, advertising, art, and (of course) fashion. Famous advertising examples include CocaCola campaigns and those of Virgin. In art, the color red is used to create attention, like in the famous painting The Triumph of Galatea.
What Does Red Clothing Symbolize?
The color red symbolizes love, emotion, and passion. But also rage, vigor, and control. It always depends on how dark, light, or saturated the red is that a person is wearing. Also, the cultural interpretations of red clothing can be very different.
Red in advertising and art is great. But, in this blog post, what we are more interested in is how red works in our minds and fashion. In other words, we want to know how red items of clothing make us appear and which psychological effects it can create.
What does the color red mean when you wear it? Which signals do you send other people when you wear red clothing and what do you think of others who dress using the color red?
The short answer would be: a lot of different – sometimes even controversial – things! Red can mean passion, but can also mean anger. It can symbolize luck, but also deceit. Depending on the value or chroma of red, it can have completely different meanings.
This answer isn’t very satisfactory, is it? Well, let’s get to the nitty-gritty and teach you all there is to know about the color red in fashion.
The Meaning and Psychology of Red
So, it begs the question, what does red mean when you wear it? Two answers - energy and powerful emotion. Both in the positive and somewhat negative sense...
Now, I’m guessing you were expecting us to say something like red means love and passion. Well, you‘re right – and there’s nothing wrong with that answer. But, we can’t deny the fact that the color red can also mean things like anger, aggression, and war.
The thing is, depending on the situation and context, red can connote different ideas and meanings. And it doesn’t stop there. Different variations of red can imply different meanings, as well.
There are so many meanings that can be associated with just this one color. It’s mind-blowing. In fact, the color red has been described as a color of extremes.
So, as you can tell, we have a lot to handle on our plate when it comes to using red in our fashion pieces. Nonetheless, you – by all means – shouldn’t be discouraged about adding some red to your wardrobe. Additionally (and maybe more importantly), there’s no need to throw out the clothing you already have.
When it comes to colors in fashion, it’s all about understanding their psychological effects and how we can use that to our advantage.
Effects of Pure Reds
Pure red is a red that is in its natural and original state. Technically, in design and art environments, it is referred to as the red hue. The concept may be a bit difficult to wrap our minds around. But, let’s break it down with an analogy using ice cream:
Ice cream comes in many flavors. The three most popular ice cream flavors are vanilla, strawberry, and chocolate. In this analogy, pure red is equivalent to a cup of pure strawberry ice cream (as many scoops as you like). There’s no vanilla or chocolate ice cream, and no whipped cream in the cup.
For color, this means there’s no black (chocolate), white (vanilla), gray (whipped cream), or any other color (banana, apple, sprinkles, cat food, etc.) added to it. It’s just the way it is: pure.
With that said, let’s now explore the effects of pure red on people’s minds.
Red is a vibrant and compelling color and very much associated with dominance and a higher probability of winning. In its natural state, it is said to be a dynamic stimulant and an activator of energy. What this means is that people, even animals, are more apt to react more quickly and strongly to anything red.
The red elements in this outfit seem to jump out at you.
Red stands out. Period. It is a warm color that gives off energy and makes anything “pop”. Red is one of the most eye-catching colors there is.
Just think of fruit: Why are so many kinds of (ripe) fruit red? Exactly! Because fruit is here to be eaten. You can’t eat, what you can’t see... This is also why unripe fruit is still green (to blend in among the leaves).
In the realm of romance, a study suggests that red attracts emotional and sexual interest. So wearing red can also offer men, and women, the opportunity to stand out more as a possible mate.
There are so many studies on this topic, that we can barely even scratch the surface. But if you’re interested, we suggest you click on the purple links.
Effects of Light Reds
A light red color is a red that is mixed with any amount of white to give that pale red look. Usually, it is referred to as a tint of red, or (maybe better known) as the color pink.
Pink, and every other light red color, is associated with love, kindness, compassion, and openness. And because pink also has the qualities of white, it can be associated with purity and innocence.
These combinations of qualities are the reason pink is generally accepted as a feminine color. However, that doesn’t mean men can’t wear pink or any light red color. There are lots of benefits that come with wearing pink as a result of its qualities:
You’ll be seen as a more open person.
It will be a lot easier for people to approach you.
You’ll be regarded as an intelligent and thoughtful person - but this is determined by how you wear pink.
But, you also shouldn’t deny the fact that pink may make you look like a weaker person. This is true, whether you’re male or female. So remember, putting on colors should be in moderation. Wearing light red (pink) can easily be overdone. Think of Dolores Umbridge from Harry Potter...
A more effective way to wear pink is to use it as an accent piece.
As a general “unofficial rule,” light reds are mostly suited for informal and casual occasions. So you’re usually not going to be wearing these colors to the next board meeting. Unless, of course, you’re like us and love mixing things up (check the image below)...
Effects of Dark Reds
On the other side of the red hue value spectrum are dark reds. Dark reds, also known as shades of red, are the result of mixing black and red in various proportions. Popular examples of reds in this category are maroon, and blood.
Sidenote: The also popular color burgundy is, contrary to popular belief, not a dark red. It is actually a dark red-purple since it has a tinge of blue (or purple) added to it.
Dark reds represent more of the stronger qualities of red, in general. Just to list a few, the qualities include ambition, control, vigor, rage, and passion. Additional traits as a result of the presence of black are seriousness, leadership, and confidence.
Wearing dark red elements in your clothing can make you stand out as responsible and reliable – but also bold and daring (controversy alert!). It’s also a perfect option for you if you don’t want to come off as too flashy but still command attention.
Dark reds work well as both a canvas (suits, pants, jackets, etc.) and an accent (ties, socks, etc.).
Dark red gives any outfit the allure of… let’s call it passion. Wearing so much burgundy makes the ultimate statement.
Dark reds – especially saturated ones – symbolize... well: SEX. So, beware when wearing too much. Especially in combination with pure black. Unless you’re going for exactly that look, make sure you choose outfits that don’t purely use dark red and black. For more information, we suggest you read up on this study by the University of Liverpool and the Charles University in Prague.
Effects of Red Tones
Toned reds in art are produced by mixing gray with the red hue. However, in fashion, we refer to them as unsaturated or neutral reds (with an element of gray).
Visually, they are not as vibrant as the other types of red. So, it’s safe to say they have the psychological effects of neither shade nor tint.
Examples of red tones include Brick and Blush.
Red tones go well as canvas pieces since they look a bit muted. Some of the characteristics they are associated with are reserved, practical, stable, and indifferent – so, basically the attributes of grays.
Social Interpretations of the Color Red
Culturally, red represents various – and often very contrasting – things all round the world.
For Africans, it symbolizes war, mourning, and death. A pretty common-sense idea is not to wear much red if you are planning on going there.
In Asia, red symbolizes many different things as well. Indians see red as a symbol of marriage, fertility, love, and power. The Chinese use red as a representation of luck and celebration. That’s why, in contrast to the West, the rise in their stock markets is indicated in red and not green.
In Europe and North America, red is the color of excitement, love, and danger.
For Latin Americans, red symbolizes religion.
And for the Middle Easterners, it is considered as dangerous and evil.
As you most surely can see, the color red has so many different and opposing meanings that it’s hard to simply state all of them in just one paragraph. It’s important to note that wearing the color red can sometimes, depending on the context, even offend others!
Make sure you dress appropriately according to the occasion and location – especially if you choose to wear red. Always remember:
With great power comes great responsibility. - Uncle Ben (Spiderman)
What Does the Color Red Mean? In Short
In summary, red is not an easy color. Even if it’s on the lighter side (like pink) it still has no clear meaning. And on the darker side, although it may seem a bit dulled down, it still packs a punch that’ll make you be noticed.
By now, you have probably had a light-bulb moment of why red is useful in advertising, art, and in our case, fashion. It is useful for creating attention, attraction, and awareness. You can never go wrong with red, no matter the shade, tone, or tint.
So, in “super short”, red is the color that signifies energy. With the tidbits of information from this article, you are surely on your way to being a master of using red in your attire. Explore, experiment, and have fun (and share this article).
