Colour will be a hot topic on the agenda at The International Association of Image Consultants annual conference I am attending next week. Colour is one element that can enhance you; help express a signature look and reflect your personal brand so you shine.
Various psychologists and colour consultants have said that the colours you choose to wear say more about your personality and mood than you think. How are you feeling? Full of life, creative and confident enough to take on the world? Chances are you are wearing something red. If you are feeling indifferent, or distant, you are probably dressed in black.
Now that’s got your attention, as most of us in the business world tend to have our wardrobes dominated by black. But do you realise bright colours always make you feel happier! And can have a positive effect on customers and clients.
So if you want to lighten up.... Brighten up!
Here are a few colour choices to consider.
BLUE is known as the executive colour. Blue enhances your wisdom and stimulates self-awareness, so wear it when you are discussing important issues. Dark blue says, "I’m the boss". You are a person who knows who you are and where you are going! Blue stimulates the mind but can be seen as a cold colour. However it is also the colour of the sky and the ocean and is one of the most popular colours.
GREEN calms your emotions and helps with relaxation. Performers and people waiting to appear on TV sit in "green rooms" to calm their nerves. Green is a refreshing colour and symbolises nature and fertility. Dark green is masculine, conservative, and implies wealth.
YELLOW is an excellent colour to wear when you’re feeling down. Yellow stimulates your desires, promotes positivity and prevents depression. It is a welcoming colour and good for communicating, so wear it when you want to sell yourself and your skills. It is cheery, optimistic and an attention getter. Although eye catching, it is a difficult colour for the eye to take in, so it can be overpowering if overused.
RED says success. Wear red to express power and to stand out in a crowd. A person who wears red is not afraid of showing a strong image. Red is stimulating, arousing and romantic, and excellent when you want to come up with ideas. If you want to boost your physical energy or overcome negative thinking and feeling of rejection wear red. Since it is an extreme colour, red clothing might not help people in negotiations or confrontations.
BLACK is a colour of authority and power. It is always popular in fashion, as it is stylish, timeless, elegant and slimming. Total black outfits can sometimes be overpowering, or make the wearer seem aloof. If you want to evoke mystery or aren’t in the mood to talk, wear black. Black keeps you hidden, but can have a “keep your distance” effect on people. To come across as more approachable wear a different coloured shirt or top with an all black suit.
Learn more about how your image reflects your brand with the eBook The Power of Personal Public Relations.
Read last week’s blog Tips on What to Pack for a Conference
Sue Currie is a personal branding specialist providing solutions to business owners and organisations to boost their image, renown, brand and business. She is the founder of Shine Academy, providing education, professional development training and consulting to help businesses and entrepreneurs position and present an impactful personal and professional brand. Through speaking, corporate workshops, and consulting, Sue helps businesses and individuals to stand out and shine.
