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Color Psychology: Use Colors To Their Full Potential

Image: Héctor J. Rivas

Colors are more than just visual stimuli; they hold the power to evoke emotions, shape perceptions, and influence behaviors. The psychological impact of colors has been studied extensively, revealing how different hues can trigger specific responses in individuals. By understanding the principles of color, their psychological impact, and their practical applications, you can create compelling designs, and enhance your natural features.

Let’s get into the fascinating world of color psychology and explore the effects of ten prominent colors on the human psyche.

Image: Mika Baumeister

You probably already know about primary and secondary colors, and you also know there are many more colors than those. What you probably don’t know is that each combination receives a different name and, learning about the color wheel is a fundamental tool to elevate your features. Consider combinations in terms of:

• **Complementary colors:** These are **located directly opposite each other** on the color wheel. For example, orange and purple. Together, they create high-contrast vibrancy and impact.
• **Analogous colors:** They sit **adjacent to each other** on the color wheel. For example, blue and green. Contrary to complementary colors, these together create harmony and cohesion. They evoke unity and tranquility.
• **Triadic colors:** These are **evenly spaced around the color wheel**, forming a triangle. For example, red, yellow and blue. They provide a balanced contras while maintaining harmony. They create dynamic and visually appealing compositions.

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Red is, typically, the color associated with intense feelings: passion, energy, and excitement. Synonyms with desire and sensuality, red is the color of romantic love and attraction.

In fashion, red is associated with power and it can easily attract attention. It is visually striking as it stands out against its surroundings. It can make you feel confident and strong, red has the power to captivate the imagination, stimulate the senses, and drive action.

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When you think of blue, you probably think of the sea first. And unless you suffer from

thalassophobia, you feel relaxed. That is because blue is associated with tranquility, trustworthiness, and reliability.

In fashion, shades of blue -from serene sky blue to deep navy- convey a sense of calm sophistication. A classic blue suit exudes professionalism, while a breezy blue dress evokes a relaxed yet refined vibe.

Image: Ehimetalor Akhere Unuabona

This color is magical to some. If you are having a bad day, wearing a yellow sweater can instantly make you feel happier. That is because yellow radiates optimism, happiness, and naturally, warmth.

Yellow garments or accessories bring a burst of sunshine to any wardrobe. Whether it is a vibrant yellow sundress or a subtle yellow accessory, this color adds a playful and cheerful touch to an ensemble.

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Green is the color of nature, it symbolizes harmony, balance, and growth. In fashion, every shade of green -from earthy olives to vibrant emeralds- evokes a connection to nature and sustainability. Green clothes convey a sense of freshness and vitality, making it a popular choice for eco-conscious fashionistas.

However, that is not all. Green suits evoke authority at the same time that they exude reliability and closeness.

Image: Sang Tran

Purple holds a unique allure, it evokes a sense of luxury, creativity, and regal elegance. It is historically linked to opulence and, in fashion, it gives every look a sense of grandeur and sophistication.

Beyond its association with luxury, purple is also a color of creativity and individuality. It sparks imagination and encourages artistic expression. Purple accessories inject a playful and whimsical element into an outfit and they showcase an interest for innovation.

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Orange radiates vitality and warmth, similar to yellow, but with a touch of energy. It is dynamic and playful and it easily captivates the eye and invigorates the spirit. Using an orange garment serves as a focus of attention and energy, uplifting any outfit and contrasting with the rest of the colors.

Whether it is a soft peach dress for a casual day out or a vibrant tangerine skirt for a night on the town, orange attires radiate joy and optimism, lifting the wearer’s spirit with a sense of confidence.

Image: Alexandra Tran

Pink, with its soft and delicate hue, holds a special place as it evokes feelings of femininity, romance, and sweetness. It transcends time and trends in its ability to convey grace.

Pink clothes can be seen as a symbol of charm and sophistication. The soft, rosy tones of blush pink create a sense of ethereal beauty while, combined with flowers, it exudes elegance and grace. It is one of the most versatile colors as it can easily be adapted to casual and formal outfits.

Pink is inherently romantic, symbolizing love, affection, and tenderness.

Image: Ivana Cajina

Black is probably the wildcard in every closet and there are reasons aplenty. But the nerd note first, black is not actually color, but the absence of it. Black is not just any color, it is a statement of power, it effortlessly transmits sophistication and class, and it goes with every color. That is why it easily became a staple in fashion.

Moreover, black is also the color that best flatters every figure, regardless of your weight. Wearing black can create curves and accentuate your silhouette. And naturally, it has transcended infinite trends and seasons, remaining eternally chic and versatile.

Image: Samantha Gades

Similar to black, white is also an eternally versatile color. White represents balance, clarity, and calmness more than any other color. It represents purity and newness.

Considering it is the chosen color for brides and major life events of the sort, white is connected to elegance and freshness, and, contrary to what those specific scenarios may show, it also represents simplicity and innocence.

White is the color of ethereal beauty and luminosity as it reflects natural light in a unique way.

Woof, woof!

Do you speak dog? 12 words for communicating with your pet

Image: Camylla Battani

All creatures have a language of their own, and dogs are certainly no exception. But, over all the years humans and dogs have kept each other company, an undeniable communication has been established between the two. If you are a dog owner or are about to become one, take a look at the following 12 short and easy commands that almost any dog will pick up in no time!

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Probably the most the most important command any dog must learn, "stay" will come in handy daily.

To teach it, have your dog start by sitting. Then slowly back away. If your pet moves toward you, say "no" (more on this one later) and have them sit. When they stop, say "stay."

Image: Karsten Winegeart

An equally important word for children and dogs alike, "no" will keep your pet out of trouble. Use this command in any instance where you can see your dog doing something wrong.

To teach this, have your dog on a leash and place a treat on the floor. Walk your dog towards the treat and once they sniff it, say "no", while slightly pulling the leash towards you.

Image: Alvan Nee

Another classic dog word, "sit" can be used daily to keep your pet at bay when especially good behavior is needed.

Teach your dog to "sit" by holding a treat in your fist and putting it above your dog’s head. Slowly move it behind their head and when they crouch, say "sit" and reward them with the treat.

Image: David Clarke

This command is particularly useful if your dog gets a little too excited. Hold a treat in front of your pet and wait for them to smell it. Once they do, bring the treat down to the floor, and your dog will eventually follow. When their belly is on the floor, say "down" and give them the treat.

Image: Kojirou Sasaki

Quite similar to the aforementioned "stay" but particularly useful for those times when guests arrive at your door and your pet gets too excited and jumps over the newcomers.

To teach "wait" to your dog, have somebody stand outside your door and call. When you open the door and see that your pet starts moving towards it, say "wait", while the person outside closes the door.

Image: Anna Dudkova

If you are not one to allow your pet on the sofa or worse, the bed, "off" can be a useful command. While in an area with furniture, hold a treat in a fist and put it in front of your dog’s nose. They will try to get it, but keep your fist closed. When your pet eventually backs down, say "off" and give them the treat.

Image: Jamie Street

Every dog owner has been in a situation where her or his pet has picked up something against the owner’s wishes. The command "drop it" helps prevent your dog from hurting themselves and your valuables.

To teach it, you’ll need two identical dog toys. Give your dog one and let them play with it. Then, call them over and hold up the new toy. Say "drop it" and give them the new toy once they drop the other.

Image: Jamie Street

More often than not, kids and dogs need to be told when to go to bed. To teach your dog this simple command, put them on a leash and lead them to wherever their bed is. Once you get your dog in his or her bed, say the word "bed".

Image: Wade Austin Ellis

Leashes are usually associated with going for a walk, therefore, this command will be quickly understood by your pet. Teach your dog how to get over the leash if he or she is tangled in it by wrapping it around the front paw, then slowly make the loop larger and pull it towards you. Your dog will lift their paw and when the leash comes off, give them a leash and say "leash".

Image: Luke MacGillivray

A command like "quiet" can be useful if your pet is barking excessively and being obtrusive.

You can teach "quiet" when your pet is barking by saying the word very loudly, over your dog’s bark. When your dog stops barking, give her or him a treat.

Image: Avi Richards

Most dogs love getting into a car but just in case yours isn’t one of those, take her or him outside with a leash and have the trunk or door of your car easily accessible. Then, place a treat inside the desired sitting area and say "car." Your pet should jump right in and, after a few tries, understand when it’s time to go for a ride.

Image: Chris Arthur-Collins

Pups break stuff by treating it too roughly or biting too hard. If you see this kind of behavior, just say the word "gentle" firmly, while showing your pet your open palm towards her or him. Once they stop, caress your pet lightly, so as to imitate the soft approach you expect them to have towards the element that is being destroyed.