Do Certain Colors Affect Your Mood?

Do you have a favorite colour? I like pink. I don’t usually leave my home without something pink, whether it’s a lipstick, a purse or a dress. Pink makes me feel more confident and happier, so that’s why I do it.

Enter: color psychology. This theory states that wearing certain colors can boost your mood.

There is no one-size-fits all approach to color psychology. Color perceptions and experiences are what determine how colors affect people. Although statistical evidence shows that red is viewed as powerful and attractive, this does not mean that everyone will see it. Your color psychology is unique.

We spoke to psychologists to gain a better understanding about color psychology and how they can influence your mood.

Color psychology is influenced by biological and evolutionary principles. Color psychology is a foundation for many things in our society.

Jennifer Hettema is senior clinical director at LifeStance Health. She says that red in both animals and humans can signal aggression and dominance to other people. Many studies have shown that athletes and teams who wear red have an advantage over other colors. This principle of color psychology suggests that wearing red can help you feel more confident, no matter if you’re going on a date or preparing for a presentation at work.

A psychological perspective suggests that humans are affected by what is called enclothed cognition. Lee Chambers, an American environmental psychologist, says that this theory is based on the belief that clothes can have an impact on our emotions and behavior. Therefore, the colors we wear can affect our mood.

Color perception is also influenced by people’s personal experiences

When they are trying to evoke certain emotions, there are three main colors that people gravitate towards: red, black, deep purple, and orange. However, people will have different meanings of colors based on their lives and past experiences.

Bethany Cook, PsyD licensed clinical psychologist, states that “our personal affinity for certain colours may be closely linked to our cultural and/or lifestyle experiences. So your experience might not fit into the norms of red makes me feel strong’ or ‘blue make me feel calm’.”

Hettema says that associations can be made between colors if someone has had a strong or repeated experience with them. “For instance, repeated hospitalizations in which the medical staff wear a particular shade of blue can lead to negative feelings like fear or anxiety.

The opposite side of the spectrum is pink. If someone has positive experiences with pink hair, it could be an indication that they have an affinity for pink and positive feelings.

My favorite color is pink, mainly because my favorite princess wore a pink gown and my favourite childhood doll wore bright pink lipstick. Positive associations with childhood events will be a positive influence on adulthood.

How to incorporate color psychology into your life

Color psychology can be explored and it is always changing. That’s the beauty of color psychology. It’s easy to see colors and recognize which colors improve your mood.

As you go about your day, pay attention to the colors that catch your attention and the feelings they invoke. It doesn’t matter if it’s a painting, or an outfit. Be more aware of the colors you gravitate towards, depending on how you feel.

“Look at art, visit an art museum and get lost in the colors. Try on different colors in a shop, and pick ones that you would not normally buy. Cook suggests that you look in the mirror to see how you feel about each appearance. Once you are aware of your biases for color, you can ask yourself what you “need” for the day. For example, strength, calmness, patience, energy. Then, pick the colors that best represent these feelings and choose your outfit.”

Keep track of the colors that you like. A personal color guide is one way to do this. Chambers says that creating a personal color palette for yourself can help you to create a wardrobe that is color-driven and supports you no matter what your mood may be.

Final Verdict

Certain colors can improve your mood. You may be curious about which colors can boost your mood. However, this depends on how you perceive the world and what you like. Playing with colors can help you discover which colors will boost your mood. Play with your inner child and discover what brings you joy and good feelings. You can use this information to help you choose the right colors for your mood and then incorporate them into your outfit selections. Add a pink shirt to your outfit if that color is pink. Add a pair or cardigan in green to the ensemble. It doesn’t matter how small or large, color psychology can make a big difference in your mood.