What Does a Suit Color Say About You?
Whether you're walking into a job interview or striding into a crowded courtroom, you're subconsciously sending a message with the color of your attire. When you understand this, you can use color symbolism to your advantage. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
-
Black
-
A black suit remains a classic because of its versatility and flattering, slimming quality. Black connotes sophistication, authority, clarity and seriousness. Because of the elegant and solemn nature of black, it is the perfect color for formal and evening wear. Formal black suits look especially striking when worn with a white shirt.
A possible drawback of black, which is actually an absence of light, is that it can wash out the complexion. Black is sober and restrained, and wearing it during the day could appear ominous and intimidating. Avoid black in situations where you want to appear very friendly and accessible.
Blue
-
The color of the sea and sky, blue is soothing and conveys tranquility, intelligence, serenity and coolness. A blue suit makes the wearer appear loyal, efficient, dutiful, logical, communicative and trustworthy. However, blue also may read as cold, aloof, emotionless or unfriendly.
Darker shades of blue are more appropriate for business suits while lighter blue shades, which convey innocence, are more at home in casual settings.
-
Grey
-
Grey has no direct psychological effect. A grey suit, especially in a darker shade such as charcoal, can be helpful in situations where you want to appear neutral, calm, safe and quiet. Certain greys, especially lighter tones, may give the impression you lack energy, confidence and assertiveness. Yet, grey is versatile, appropriate in all situations and wearable with most colors of shirts and ties.
Brown
-
Brown is a mix of black with a smaller percentage of red and yellow. Because it contains mostly black, it has some of the same serious qualities but is softened by the yellow and red elements. Brown is the color of the earth and other natural elements, which translates as earthiness, supportiveness, reliability and warmth of character. Unlike black, brown can look unsophisticated and may indicate a lack of humor.
Other Colors
-
Suits in other colors can make a powerful statement. Green is a reassuring and restful color found in abundance in nature. It signifies harmony, fertility, balance, reassurance and peace. Suits in darker hues are appropriate for the workplace. On the opposite side of the color wheel is red, the strongest of all colors due to having the longest wavelength. Red has powerful psychological effects, conveying excitement, assertiveness and power. Too much red can strain the eye and appear aggressive or demanding, so use red sparingly. White suits convey simplicity, purity and innocence but may appear cold and sterile. Wear dashes of yellow to denote confidence, friendliness and optimism. Orange connotes passion and frivolity while violet says luxury, spirituality, mystery and royalty.
-
References
- Photo Credit Leonard Mc Lane/Digital Vision/Getty Images
