Unlocking the psychology behind clothing colour choices
The colours you choose to wear to work will subconsciously send a message to those around you.
As an image consultant, I place a lot of emphasis on colours.
You may not know this but the psychology behind your wardrobe colour choices plays a huge role in how people react to you in a professional work environment. The colours you choose to wear to work will subconsciously send a message to those around you.
Colour also has the ability to affect emotions, not only for you but also for those working close to you.
This means that even before you’ve said a single word, you have already set the mood for your day, and this is all based on the colour choices you have made. By wearing the right colour for a particular situation, you have the ability to make a strong impression.
Psychology in colours
One of the best examples of choosing the right colour is wearing red. When a person wears red they are seen to be more determined, powerful, energetic and exciting. But, at the same time, they are also seen to be more daring, impulsive and aggressive. Subconsciously, red increases our heart rate and breathing. The colour red gives us enhanced energy levels and boosts our confidence.
Wearing red is great for those who address an audience because it will command attention. On the other hand, wearing too much red can be overwhelming for others. Too much red can invoke feelings of anger and it is therefore not a great idea to dress in red, head to toe. Due to the negative connotations surrounding the colour red, it is suggested that you never opt for red when going for an interview.
In this article I will guide you through the psychology behind some of the most popular wardrobe colours to help you decide which is best suited for your work environment:
Blue
When a person wears blue it represents depth, trust, loyalty and wisdom. Additionally, it has a positive effect on the mind and body. Peaceful and tranquil hues of blue cause the body to release calming chemicals. Blue is best suited for those in stressful environments, such as accountants, auditors, and financial consultants.
Green
Green is associated with growth, harmony, freshness, safety and fertility. It is known to have healing powers and is the most soothing colour for the eye. Green affects us physically and mentally and helps with anxiety, depression and nervousness. It can also help enhance vision, stability and endurance. Green is suited to those working in the field of psychology or life coaches.
Orange
This colour promotes a sense of general wellness and emotional energy, compassion and warmth. Orange will help a person recover from disappointments, a wounded heart or a blow to one’s pride. It also helps with decision-making and enhances happiness, confidence and understanding. Those working in human resources, people development and psychology should opt to wear orange.
Yellow
Yellow is associated with hope, happiness, positivity, clarity and energy. It enhances concentration and helps activate the memory. It encourages communication, builds confidence and stimulates the nervous system. Tutors and teachers can benefit from wearing yellow.
Purple
Purple has a variety of uplifting effects on the mind and body. Some of these include the ability to calm nerves and create a feeling of spirituality. Additionally, purple encourages imagination and creativity. Wearing purple is suited for spiritual workers, entrepreneurs, leaders.
Pink
Pink is a delicate colour that invokes feelings of sweetness, playfulness and romance. Those working with small children will benefit from wearing pink.
Black, brown, grey and white
These are the neutrals which can be paired with colour. Neutrals have their own psychology which we will take a look at at a later stage. When it comes to finding the right colours, you will also note that some colours may not work with the shape of your body as well as the tone of your skin. You will need to remember the colour you choose should complement you.
• Judy is a personal stylist and image consultant from Edenglen. For more information on finding the right colours visit www.empoweredbystyle.co.za or contact Judy via judy@empoweredbystyle.co.za or 074 353 3407.
