Knowing fabrics and their uses is just as important as understanding colors and the effects they have on people. Choosing the wrong color can ruin a perfect design and, although we are intuitively drawn to certain colors simply because of personal taste, each shade is associated with a whole set of unconscious reactions that incline us to feel a certain way. But is there any serious research on this? Or are we just making it up as we go?
In her book “The Psychology of Color,” Eva Heller offers a broad and in-depth study that directly links colors to our feelings, based on traditions and perceptions deeply rooted in our language and our thinking. According to the research of this sociologist and psychologist, a professor of Communication Theory and Color Psychology, understanding colors and their psychological implications is essential for everyone who works with them: fashion designers, advertisers, interior designers, therapists… And it can be very useful for you, too, of course!
Based on this study, just as we did with the color pink a few weeks ago, today we’re going to help you get to know the color blue a little better and everything it makes you feel, even if you don’t realize it.
The Psychology of the Color Blue
The color blue is liked by practically everyone. In fact, unlike what happens with other less popular colors, it is many people’s favorite. It can be used for any occasion and in any season of the year, but that’s not all: when we wear blue garments, we unconsciously inspire others with a feeling of trust and friendliness. So whenever you want to make a good impression, blue is always an ideal choice.
One of its best-known associations has to do with a feeling of peace and tranquility. What you may not know is that experiments have been conducted in which prolonged exposure to the color blue lowered the pulse and blood pressure of the people studied, while also slowing their breathing. That’s why blue tones are so often used in places such as waiting rooms and even children’s classrooms. Of all the feelings a color can produce in us, none is as intense as the feeling of tranquility generated by blue.
The color blue is also identified with harmony and has a certain connotation that tends toward the eternal and the divine. These sensations probably have to do with experience, since it is the color of the sea and the sky.
But although it may seem contradictory, despite having such a relaxing effect, it is also a powerful intellectual stimulant. Probably because that apparent outward passivity it immerses us in translates into inner activity: that’s why it encourages inspiration and creativity.
The color blue also evokes cold in us, a sensation that, when it’s hot, could be described as refreshing. As a counterpoint to warm colors, it is usually associated with the more rational and even-tempered personalities: in this sense, it is connected with good judgment and a sense of responsibility.
In summary:
When it comes to wearing this color, blue gives us lots of positive feelings related to trust, friendliness, and friendship, making us more positively predisposed toward other people. It is also suitable for every occasion.
On the other hand, when applied to spaces and interiors, it has a pronounced calming and soothing effect, accompanied by intellectual stimulation and a sense of spaciousness. It is closely linked to spirituality.
For these reasons, and because it is a color that provokes very little rejection while also making us feel comfortable, blue is almost always a safe bet, whether for little ones or adults.
If you want to convey all these wonderful feelings through your creations, take a muuuy relaxing stroll through our fabric section and discover everything we have for you.