It’s probably pretty safe to say that more than 50 percent of people you encounter will tell you that blue is their favorite color. Why? Because blue – despite its association with baby boys – appeals positively to both men and women for a host of different reasons. It’s the color of pristine skies and endless oceans, police officers, The Virgin Mary, the bourgeoisie and blueberries. It should come as no surprise, given the significance of this color throughout the world, that blue sends a strong message and influences us both mentally and physically.
Wearing a blue dress shirt, for instance, suggests a warm personality and projects a sense of dependability, commitment and trustworthiness; much like green. It gives the wearer a more serious look, but without bending towards arbitrary sternness – no wonder it’s such a common color in law enforcement. Yet blue also has a more devious side, since it’s often associated with wisdom and can make you appear smarter than you truly are.
Blue, perhaps not surprisingly, has a particularly calming effect to the wearer and sends a soothing effect to the people around you – think of the feeling you get when you look at Van Gogh’s Starry Night, for example. This color invokes relaxation and causes the body to produce bio-chemicals which help us stay mellow and on an even keel.
Wearing this color may also help you to perform better and be more productive in your work, since it’s been shown in studies to help people focus. On the flip side of the coin however, blue also has a tendency to exude an aura of coldness, especially steely, grayish blues. It also, of course, implies depression; not that kind of blue celebrated by Miles Davis.
On a purely fashion-related note though, it’s not a bad idea to keep your closet well stocked with blue, considering its versatility. You definitely won’t have a hard time matching blue with most kinds of casual trousers or shoes. Also, it looks great any time of year and is appropriate for any situation, no matter how formal or informal. If your wardrobe still needs some developing, we’re sure you won’t regret bringing a little slice of the heavens and the sea to your closet.
Tags: Advice, Blue Shirt, Psychology, Shirt Color, What Your Shirt Color Says About You
