Laura Schultz

In describing the effect that color can have on our emotions and the world around us, the painter Henri Matisse stated, “The chief function of color should be to serve expression.” In our heart of hearts, who among us hasn’t had the fantasy at some point of making a grand entrance and capturing the admiration of everyone in the room? It’s often been said that “you never get a second chance to make a first impression.” Creating that kind of magical impression through fashion can set you apart as a trendsetting fashionista and one known for the exceptional use of color. Colors have an energetic charge or vibration that influences both our own bodies and the world at-large. With a basic understanding of chakras and the psychology of the colors associated with them, these powerful vibrational frequencies can be used to our advantage in shifting the messages we create. Chakras (meaning “wheel of light” in Sanskrit) consist of 7 major energy centers that are strategically aligned throughout the body. When these energies are in balance, they can create an awakening that allows us to let go of old, negative attachments and habits. Color stimulates an emotional and mental response to the vibration it gives off, which affects us on a subconscious level. We either accept or reject that particular vibration based on many factors such as the powerful messages sent by the color and the sensation it awakens in us. Each chakra has a specific and distinct color associated with it that when worn can enhance mood and create a desired impression. For example, the color yellow is connected to the 3rd chakra which rules the emotions. Yellow creates confidence, personal strength and clarity of thought, so it should be worn when studying for an exam or giving a motivational speech. The first chakra (located at the base of the spine) whose color vibration is red, represents physical power, energy and passion/sexuality. Red energy can be either overpowering or powerfully energizing. So, if you want to feel powerful or more self-possessed, choose reds and yellows. But also be mindful of the shade you wear as brighter more intense hues can tip the scales too far and become off-putting. More muted tones may not give you the full vibrational frequency benefit. The key is balance. It can be a fascinating challenge to experiment with the creation of different messages sent to others with different colors. It is also interesting to note how even the slightest shift in the use of color can make you feel differently and the responses from others change in the process. Though a fire engine red dress could feel overwhelming, wearing a dazzling red scarf (or tie for a man) or a bold red handbag may just be the right prescription to project a new and more positive image. Shifting the various hues and amounts of color can help you to enhance your strengths and play down any weaknesses. If you are in doubt about a particular color or just want to see if a color fits the message you want to convey, you can find a complete list of the chakras and their associated colors at chakracolourtherapy.com. For further information a great book is “the Language of Color” by Dorothee L. Mella.