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The Psychology Behind the 4th of July Color Code

This weekend as we all celebrate the ol’ red, white and blue here in the U.S we thought it would be fun to look at just what those colors can mean. So we did a little digging to determine what the 4th of July color code conveys, how these colors make you feel and the fashion pros and cons.  Some of what we learned may seem obvious, but there are some surprises too!

Fireworks behind statue of liberty evokes pride in our country's freedom

Fireworks behind statue of liberty evokes pride in our country’s freedom

Singer Katy Perry showing her patriotic pride

Singer Katy Perry showing her patriotic pride

The psychology of color in fashion can be a pretty powerful thing.  Color sends a message about the wearer – how you feel and how you view yourself.  And it also generates a response or reaction from those you come in contact with throughout the day.  Color can be a potent tool of communication and, as such, considerations of color should not be taken quite so lightly.  I recall once walking into a job interview and having the interviewer comment on the color I’d chosen to wear before we even started our conversation. That is not to say you shouldn’t have fun with color.  Just be aware of the “hidden” meanings.

RED

Red is a powerful color.  It grabs attention (no wonder it is used for stop signs and traffic lights).  It is strong and basic.  Stimulating and lively.  It can be friendly.  But it can also be seen as demanding and aggressive.  Its effects are physical and can actually increase the pulse rate.  Red is a good color for power dressing or for those wanting to make a strong statement.  It is a favorite of people who tend to have fiery personalities.  Avoid going overboard though.  It can be off-putting.  Softening the look with pale pink or white accents or accessories will diminish the harshness and soften the appeal.

Thomas Wylde Fall 2016 - Winter 2017

Thomas Wylde Fall 2016 – Winter 2017

Thomas Wylde Fall 2016 - Winter 2017

Thomas Wylde Fall 2016 – Winter 2017

Georgine RTW Fall 2016

Georgine RTW Fall 2016

Zang Toi RTW Fall 2016

Zang Toi RTW Fall 2016

Christopher Raeburn Fall 2016 - Winter 2017

Christopher Raeburn Fall 2016 – Winter 2017

Concept Korea RTW Fall 2016

Concept Korea RTW Fall 2016

Amanda Wakeley RTW Fall 2016

Amanda Wakeley RTW Fall 2016

Altuzarra Fall 2016 - Winter 2017

Altuzarra Fall 2016 – Winter 2017

Akris Fall 2016 - Winter 2017

Akris Fall 2016 – Winter 2017

Adrienne Landau RTW Fall 2016

Adrienne Landau RTW Fall 2016

WHITE

White reflects the full force of the spectrum into our eyes. It is clear, uncomplicated and crisp.  It suggests purity and, some say, innocence.  But it can also be seen as sterile and thus can create barriers.  It can be read “Don’t touch me!” When paired with warm colors it can make them look and feel harsh and unforgiving. All-white ensembles can look fresh, modern and elegant.

Jonathan Simkhai RTW Fall 2016

Jonathan Simkhai RTW Fall 2016

Jonathan Simkhai RTW Fall 2016

Jonathan Simkhai RTW Fall 2016

Helen Yarmak Fall 2016 - Winter 2017

Helen Yarmak Fall 2016 – Winter 2017

Genny RTW Fall 2016

Genny RTW Fall 2016

Thomas Wylde

Thomas Wylde

Valentino Fall 2016 - Winter 2017

Valentino Fall 2016 – Winter 2017

Veronique Branquinho Fall 2016 - Winter 2017

Veronique Branquinho Fall 2016 – Winter 2017

Andrew Gn Fall 2016 - Winter 2017

Andrew Gn Fall 2016 – Winter 2017

Andrew Gn Fall 2016 - Winter 2017

Andrew Gn Fall 2016 – Winter 2017

Anya Hindmarch RTW Fall 2016

Anya Hindmarch RTW Fall 2016

Chloe

Chloe

Alberta Ferretti

Alberta Ferretti

Bibhu Mohapatra

Bibhu Mohapatra

Adrienne Landau RTW Fall 2016

Adrienne Landau RTW Fall 2016

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Deveaux Men's RTW Fall 2016

Deveaux Men’s RTW Fall 2016

Sonia Rykiel

Sonia Rykiel

Saint Laurent

Saint Laurent

Saint Laurent

Saint Laurent

Pologeorgis

Pologeorgis

Dennis Basso Spring 2016

Dennis Basso Spring 2016

Dennis Basso Spring 2016

Dennis Basso Spring 2016

BLUE

Research studies suggest that blue is the world’s favorite color. It is the color of thought and is essentially soothing.  It affects us mentally, as opposed to the physical reaction we have to red. Strong blues will stimulate clear thought and suggest power and authority (perhaps why it is so often used for police uniforms) Lighter, soft blues are calming, more friendly and more often associated with fun.  Blue establishes trust and credibility and can therefore be seen as predictable.  It can also be seen as stodgy and conservative, cold, unemotional and unfriendly.  One way to avoid the downside of blue is to brighten it up with burst of brights or white in accessories or complementary pieces.

Michael Kors Fall 2016 - Winter 2017

Michael Kors Fall 2016 – Winter 2017

Max Mara Fall 2016 - Winter 2017

Max Mara Fall 2016 – Winter 2017

Michael Kors Fall 2016 - Winter 2017

Michael Kors Fall 2016 – Winter 2017

Moncler Grenoble Fall 2016

Moncler Grenoble Fall 2016

Georgine RTW Fall 2016

Georgine RTW Fall 2016

Helen Yarmak Fall 2016 - Winter 2017

Helen Yarmak Fall 2016 – Winter 2017

Fendi Fall 2016

Fendi Fall 2016

Emanuel Ungaro

Emanuel Ungaro

Oscar de la Renta

Oscar de la Renta

Concept Korea RTW Fall 2016

Concept Korea RTW Fall 2016

Jason Wu

Jason Wu

Tory Burch Fall 2016 - Winter 2017

Tory Burch Fall 2016 – Winter 2017

Vionnet Fall 2016 - Winter 2017

Vionnet Fall 2016 – Winter 2017

Chloe

Chloe

Bibhu Mohapatra

Bibhu Mohapatra

A. F. Vandervorst

A. F. Vandervorst

Nautica Men's RTW Fall 2016

Nautica Men’s RTW Fall 2016

Ricardo Seco Men's RTW Fall 2016

Ricardo Seco Men’s RTW Fall 2016

Monique LHuillier

Monique LHuillier

Miu Miu

Miu Miu

Undercover RTW Fall 2016

Undercover RTW Fall 2016

Sibling

Sibling

If you look at the clothes you wear you will find that you are attracted to certain colors. But be aware of the messages you might be sending and make sure your color choices are appropriate for the occasion.  The right colors help you to create a positive overall look and feel, so enjoy the exploration  of color in your clothing and use color to make your individual style statement.

Celebrating the 4th in high style

Celebrating the 4th in high style

Beyonce's 4th of July style

Beyonce’s 4th of July style

Paris Hilton and Christina Millian hanginging out in Malibu

Paris Hilton and Christina Millian hanging out in Malibu

This weekend make sure to celebrate in style!  Happy July 4!