You need an edge in life.  Try using the color in your clothing to get one. Yes, we’re serious.

Color is a very powerful psychological tool.  There are in fact, real changes that take place in humans when they are exposed to certain colors - and they can do some crazy things to us.  They can stimulate, excite, depress, tranquilize, increase or reduce appetite, and even create feelings of warmth and coolness when we see them.

Indeed, this color psychology is exactly why nearly all policemen wear blue uniforms.  It’s also why doctors wear white coats.    Blue and white send out a subliminal message of authority (for the policeman) and cleanliness (for the doctor) to the people who come into contact with the colors.  These messages are advantageous to both professions when they need it most to spread their influence.

You too should use color psychology in your daily dress to your own advantage.

For example, if you’re selling something or propositioning someone, you’re going to want to create an atmosphere that encourages quick action from the buyer.  You’re also going to need to capture the buyer’s undivided attention for your entire pitch.  Wearing a little red in your clothing might help you overcome both challenges because, red in particular, has very stimulating and eye-catching properties.  Just think of how many warning signs are colored red!  On the other hand, if you are going to break-up with your girlfriend, or fire someone, wearing a red color will only further agitate your recipient.  You have seen a bullfight, right?

So…

…wear reds, yellows, & oranges for HIGH arousal situations.

Red, yellow, and orange colors increase circulation and stimulate people’s nerves, which results in higher energy levels of the people they engage.  These ‘warm’ colors draw attention to the wearer (you), and encourage socialization.  They should be employed when you are engaging in certain high arousal situations, such as presentations at work, sales pitches, and dinner dates.

AT WORK: presenting, propositioning, pitching, motivating, interviewing (interviewee)

IN LIFE: on 1st date, at the bar/lounge/club, on a dinner date, at parties, when proposing marriage

…wear greens, blues, and purples for LOW arousal situations.

Green, blue, and violet do the opposite. They slow down the pulse rate, and lower the body temperature, effectively calming or soothing the people that they captivate.  They should be worn when you engage in low arousal situations, such as delivering bad news or needing to underscore your authority.  If you are firing someone, presiding over a meeting, negotiating the price of buying a home, or explaining the technical details of something at work,you should wear dark blue, green, or violet.

AT WORK: firing someone, explaining technical details,  presiding over a meeting, attending a business dinner, purchasing negotiations, interviewing (interviewer).

IN LIFE: breaking-up with your girlfriend, divorcing your wife, when purchasing a home/car/jewelry.

So, before you get dressed in the morning, think about what you’re doing, where you’re going, and most importantly who you’re meeting with that day. Ask yourself what kind of message you need to send in order for you to come out ahead of the situation.  Do you need a message of authority?  Trust?  Or, do you need a call to action?

Now, dress accordingly, step outside, and seize the day!