Look Twice

Written by Sofia Butler | Designed by Chelsea Kuo | Photographed by Chika Okoye

How Wearing Color Affects Our Lives

A couple of months ago, I began to notice how the colors in my environment affected my mood. Darker lit areas with more browns, greens, and grays lead me to quiet, reflective, and introverted moods, while light, colorful, vibrant spaces pushed me to connect more with others and create. As I noticed this pattern in myself, I began to wonder: do the colors I wear have a similar effect? After some research, I learned that YES! They do!

In the Vogue article, “Can Wearing Bright Colors Improve Your Mood?” Liana Satenstein explores her own relationship with color by interviewing color therapy expert, Constance Hart. According to Hart, “If you aren’t feeling centered or secure, black can feel like a security blanket. For that reason, we see a lot of black in cities. Color has an effect on our psyche, it’s always affecting us whether we are aware of it or not.”

As Boston inevitably begins to get grayer as we move into the winter months, I am making an effort to continue choosing bright colored pieces to bring energy, vitality, and connection into my day. On days when I dress brighter, I talk with more people, and feel my true energy has an authentic outlet to shine through. If you are curious about engaging with new colors in your wardrobe, follow my quick guide below!

A Quick Guide to Mood Through Color

Black for Sophistication

Brown for Grounding

Gray for Balance

White for Lighter Energy

Red for Intensity

Orange for Connection

Yellow for Inspiration

Green for Life Force

Blue for Positivity

Purple for Respect