10 Colors That Make You Look Powerful & 10 That Make You Look Approachable
The Psychology of Attraction
The clothes you choose to wear each morning do a lot more than just keep you warm or satisfy a dress code. Whether you realize it or not, the specific colors you pick send out subtle signals to everyone you encounter throughout your day. With that in mind, here are 10 colors that dominate and 10 that subtly attract.
1. Charcoal Gray
Gray is great for when you want to look serious and mature. Charcoal, in particular, evokes images of large stones and can make you seem more grounded. Dressing in darker grays can communicate to others that you are a no-nonsense professional who can be relied upon during intense situations.
2. Royal Blue
Blue is a great color if you want to look responsible and in charge without seeming cold or unapproachable. For centuries, blue has been used as a color of leadership. From a psychological standpoint, the color blue taps into qualities of royalty and intellectual prowess.
3. Power Black
Black is great for formal occasions and when you want to look powerful. Think of how effective the "little black dress" or a sleek black suit can be at fancy events. The color black encases you in a small cocoon that others perceive as mysterious and commanding.
4. Crimson Red
Red is definitely the color you should wear if you want to become the center of attention. As a power color, red increases heart rate and commands attention. If you want to show others that you are brave and unafraid to take up space, wear red.
5. Emerald Green
When you want to appear affluent and luxuriously rich, try wearing green. Dark shades of green are associated with money, but also with growth. The color green can make you seem more stable and grounded.
6. Deep Plum
Purple has traditionally been the color of emperors and royalty. By wearing deep plum, you tap into that age-old connection to power. Purple is a bit more unique than other colors on this list, so it can help you stand out as a powerful person with gusto.
7. Crisp White
Who doesn't love a nice, bright white shirt or blouse? When you want to look clean-cut and ultra-organized, stick with white. White is an excellent color when you want to show others that you pay attention to detail.
8. Navy Blue
As perhaps the most universally accepted color for authority, navy blue is the standard for looking capable. It bridges the gap between being approachable and being the boss, making it perfect for a management role. You can rely on this classic shade to give you an air of traditional, unwavering competence.
9. Burnt Orange
Orange can be a tricky color to wear because it isn't as powerful as other options. However, if you dress in burnt orange instead of bright orange, you can channel your inner fire without overwhelming your colleagues. Orange is a great choice to show others that you are creative and aren't afraid to take your team in a new direction.
10. Chocolate Brown
Last but not least is brown. Dark brown is often overlooked as a power color, but it carries a lot of weight. Choosing this shade shows that you're a sensible person who values substance over flashy trends.
Now that we've talked about some power-inspiring colors, here are 10 that make you look soft and approachable.
1. Soft Peach
Warm peach tones are great for making people feel comfortable because they're perceived as friendly and nurturing. They soften your features and create an aura of accessibility that's perfect for social gatherings. So give peach a try!
2. Sage Green
Green always does wonders for the eyes. Earthy tones like this one make you look like the calmest, most centered person in the room. Because it's so peaceful, people are naturally attracted to this color. Expect open dialogue once you throw this on.
3. Sky Blue
Light blues are known to promote honesty and open communication. You'll instantly come across as trustworthy. Not only will sky blue calm your nerves, but it will also help others feel relaxed around you.
4. Buttercream Yellow
Of all the colors on this list, yellow is the brightest. But opting for a buttercream yellow eliminates any signs of harshness. Not only will you look sweet, but you'll brighten everyone's day as you go about your morning.
5. Lavender
This light purple shade is often linked to grace and a quiet, unassuming kind of charm. It's subtle enough that it doesn't come off as heavy like darker purples or as aggressive as reds. Lavender allows you to appear empathetic and nurturing.
6. Warm Beige
Neutral colors like beige are always considered "team players." Not only will you blend in with the environment, but you'll also look modest. Others will perceive you as someone they can trust.
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7. Dusty Rose
Pink is a color that's synonymous with kindness. Dusty rose will have others gravitating toward you because it exudes sophistication. Not only will you look mature, but you'll appear sweet as can be.
8. Mint Green
Mint is a refreshing and youthful color that suggests you have an open and curious mind. If you want others to perceive you as laid-back and friendly, this is the color for you. You can walk into any room wearing mint and not come off as distracting.
9. Heather Gray
Unlike the stark charcoal mentioned earlier, a light heather gray feels casual, comfy, and very relatable. Gray is such a relaxing color because it's known to remind people of their favorite old sweater. You'll come off as fairly laid-back.
10. Apricot
Apricot is playful but not overbearing. If you want to attract friends and smiles, look no further. This color is great for whenever you're feeling extra and want to make a bunch of new friends at brunch.
