Thursday, July 31, 2008

What colour should I wear & why?

You've never had a Colour Analysis? Did you know you are missing out on one of the best style secrets of how you can immediately make a difference with the way you look and inevitably the way you feel...and save money! Everyone really can wear every colour, but what about the appropriateness of the colours you choose to wear.

There is more than enough science out there that tells us about the energy of colour and the fact that it has a very definite physical effect on us, effecting our behaviour and mood either positively or negatively. And if you think that these somewhat unconscious responses to colour are pretty much universal, it goes without saying the importance colour plays in our lives.

We often take it for granted just how much we make choices based on colour so have a think now about the colours of different interior environments whether where your work, your studio or your home or favourite restaurant. Think about the colours that people wear as these will be sending out impressions and signals that we can't help but pick up on. Remembering the fact that everyone (and I mean everyone) can wear every colour, it can be equally important, in certain situations, to be aware of how people can react to the colours you choose to wear.

So what's all this colour psychology about? Below is a summary of the basic colours and their effects:

Blue Mental stimulation with intellectual BLUE...
Positives: Trustworthy, Clear communication, Coolness, Soothing, Intelligent, Authoritative
Negatives: Cold, Lack of emotion, Aloof, Uncreative, Unfriendly

Good for: Interview situations, creating authority
Not so good for: When you want to stand out and impress

Get a workout with physical RED...
Positives: Passionate, Strong, Energetic, Confident, Extrovert, Dramatic, Excitement
Negatives: Aggressive, Danger, Defiance, Dominating, Overpowering
Red

Good for: When you want to stand out and be noticed! Use to create a stimulating feeling of power.
Not so good for: Interview situations, too over powering in a traditional business environment.

Green Totally balanced in GREEN...
Positives: Harmony, Refreshing, Balanced, Restful, Nurturing, Helpful
Negatives: Boredom, Predictable, Bland, Envious

Good for: When you need a boost of positiveness or calmness as this is a reassuring colour.
Not so good for: When you want to stimulate some excitement and motivation as this is too calming.

Feel it all with emotional YELLOW
Positives: Youthful, Optimistic, Happy, Creative, Friendly, Confident, Fun
Negatives: Fragile, Impulsive, Cowardly, Irrational, Anxious, Depressive
Yellow

Good for: Strongest in colour psychology - use to lift your spirits or working with the little humans.
Not so good for: In business - too much or the wrong tone can be detrimental to your mood.

Black Sophisticated & safe in BLACK
Positives: Elegant, Sophisticated, Mysterious, Dramatic, Efficient, Clarity
Negatives: Menacing, Coldness, Depressing, Boring, Mournful, Indecisive, Serious

Good for: Blending in whether the dress at a cocktail party or business suit - you will not stand out!
Not so good for: Creates protective barriers so avoid when you want to be seen as accessible to people.

Pure & simple in WHITE
Positives: Clarity, Purity, Cleanliness,Simplicity, Innocent, Fresh, Efficient
Negatives: Sterile, Cold, Over-powering, Unapproachable, Elitism
White

Good for: Projecting authority when combined with the right combination of colours.
Not so good for: Certain skin tones need the right tone. Generally avoid when playing outside with the kids!

Purple Spiritually stimulating in PURPLE
Positives: Royalty, Sensitive, Spiritual, Authentic, Truthful, Luxurious
Negatives: Introverted, Decadent, Immature, Impractical

Good for: Great for stimulating deep thought and concentration - showing off a creative side.
Not so good for: Projecting order and stability - too much can seem chaotic.

Getting back to nature in BROWN
Positives: Serious, Earthy, Natural, Approachable, Reliable, Supportive
Negatives: Safe, Boring, Conservative, Lack of sophistication, Humourless
Brown

Good for: When you want to be open to communication, be supportive and non-threatening.
Not so good for: Making a Wow impression!!

Pink Surviving in PINK
Positives: Feminine, Nurturing, Surviving, Love, Sexual, Tranquil, Approachable, Gentle
Negatives: Weak, Submissive, Pathetic, Not serious

Good for: Softening a heavy look with the right tone for the men. Being feminine for the ladies.
Not so good for: Too much of a tone can be draining and not appropriate if its drama you are after.

I'm just neutral in GREY
Positives: Emotionally neutral, Modest, Reliable, Safe
Negatives: Bland, Boring, Conservative, Lack of energy, Lack of confidence
Grey

Good for: Safe suit colour in the right tone. Can be sophisticated worn with appropriate accessories.
Not so good for: Creative, fun and lively environments - it can have a definite dampening effect.

Orange Absorb the energy in ORANGE
Positives: Warmth, Security, Fun, Passion, Youthful, Sensual, Energetic, Hospitable
Negatives: Frivolous, Immature, Undisciplined, Superficial

Good for: Definitely the fun colour - wear for energising you and those around you!
Not so good for: Unless a very creative environment - not good for business.


Think about how you people react towards you, even in the sub-conscious in the different situations you find yourself and make those colour choices with style and suitability.

Want to know more about how to choose your best colours, then check out the benefits of a personalised Colour Analysis and start to celebrate a more colourful you!