“Warmth”
I’m always so amazed at how much color there is in neutrals. In the neutrality in nature at winter time. Something about the grayer sky and absence of leaves brings to light so much underlying vibrance. We’re almost shedding our winter skin here in Mississippi, but I know that’s not the case in other parts of our country.Take a look around you. What colors do you see?
I took a break from Color Month last week to gratefully give extra attention to some client projects, but I’m back to making my way through the rainbow. Just programming note… I’m having so much fun that I’m extending the color theme through March as well. I’ve found some great color tools and information to share, so keep your eyes peeled!
It’s time for RED! Stop signs, fire engines and lipstick–red always makes an impact. I love the confidence this color injects. From vibrant pure reds and hot pinks to deeper wine and rose colors, hues in the red family imbues a sense of power and dominance. What other unspoken messages does the color red communicate?
GENERAL IMPRESSIONS:
Red is often considered the most primal of the primary colors. Of all the colors, red creates the strongest physical reactions. When the eye sees red it actually causes an increase in adrenaline production, heart rate and blood pressure. Wow! Now that’s power. With its association to blood and fire, basic red has a life-sustaining and vigorous reputation that commands attention. Because seeing red also tends to increase appetite and speed up metabolism, it is an obvious color of choice for restaurants and food products. Although red sometimes signifies danger based on how it appears in nature, it is most often equated with excitement and energy. Red at it’s most vibrant, like that of a fire engine or stop sign, is seen as aggressive, passionate, and dynamic. From the curvaceous lips on pin-up posters to racy lingerie and muscle cars, red also adds a seductive, sexy tone wherever it is displayed. In design, red has an arresting effect and will almost always cause the viewer’s eye to stop and pay attention, making it a powerful tool for marketing.
COLOR VARIATIONS:
Deeper red tones like wine or burgundy connote a richer, more refined look than vibrant reds. These colors are seen as more authoritative and mature than bright red and can suggest a more expensive, upscale look of class and reliability. Hot pink tones, on the other hand, suggest a more youthful spirit while maintaining the same high energy as basic red. Milder magenta and fuchsia versions can offer a more grown-up happy medium. As white is added to red, producing lighter pinks, the color loses its stark sensuality in favor of a more romantic, feminine look. Pastel pinks are also perceived as sweet tasting and smelling. More rosy
tones almost always signify good health and optimism, from cherub-like “rosy cheeks” to indulgent “rose-colored” glasses.
The potential of red in its many variations is so powerful as a marketing tool. It can easily serve to direct the eye and focus the attention. And, it is one of the simplest ways to suggest strong emotions. I have a prospective client meeting this afternoon. Maybe some red heels are in order! *wink*
“Glistening”
“Massey Ferguson”
I was first introduced to the CANOE store through the Portland-based Miss Modish Blog. Through one click, I discovered a wonderland of well-designed products. I love the store’s mission… “to offer simple, beautiful, and functional objects that can be used and enjoyed everyday.”
One small Thing: Lovely book darts. These one-inch long paper thin metal markers in stainless steel, brass or copper offer a convenient and beautiful way to “hold that thought” as the tin says. I’d love to slip one of these next to a favorite sentence or paragraph to remind me of something inspiring — a well-designed way to slow down the skimming process and really grab the pleasure in reading a good book. Plus, I can imagine happening upon the dart months from now and being inspired all over again. Nice.