Red Color shades and the best combinations in colors

If you wear Red, you may be counted as a communist or a prostitute, or a bride depending on where you are. I do acknowledge the power of Red and personally never jump to such judgemental conclusions. But these pre-conceived notions on red do exist.

Red is strong. Red is controversial. AND Red is fashionable. Red can look very stylish if worn right.

It is an attention-grabbing outfit color that will make you the center of attraction every single time you wear it.

The red lipstick is a classic. Red pumps trump all other shoes in making you look the queen of the party. And the Little Red Dress is fast replacing the Little Black Dress.

What does a red dress symbolize?

There is a theory called the Red Dress effect. It tells you that if you wear Red you will look more appealing and attractive to others than if you are wearing any other color. Refer this article in wikipedia to learn more.

Why are fire engines painted red, and all the red  traffic signals make you Stop – Yes, Red is a show stopper.

Red denotes many things to many people. For one, Red maybe a symbol of passionate love. For another, it may denote Danger, violence. To another, red is associated with risky moves, thrills and adventures. For another, it is the symbol of the forbidden. Sensuality is often associated with Red. So is fear.

Red is said to be the color of Planet Mars. Mars is associated with ambition, power, courage and bravery. It is also associated with liveliness. If you are feeling lethargic red is one color that can make you feel energetic.

Whatever is the psychology of wearing RED, it is an enriching color; And can make you look and feel a million dollars.

Red color Variations

Can Red dress make you look attractive?

This depends on a lot more variables than a single answer. If you have a coloring with high contrast ie contrast between hair color, skin and eye color. For eg dark hair and light skin, red can look smashing on you.

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According to a theory if you have a warm tone complexion most types of red can suit you. This is because red is a warm color. 

Check out the post on factors affecting the choice of colors for your clothes.

How to get the red dress style right?

Do not wear this color if you are an introvert and would like nothing more than a quiet spot at any party. One of the most important caveats of wearing red is that you should be confident in yourself. With a red colored outfit, you cannot hide yourself in the crowd. It is the color of confidence and that is what you should be.

Wear red with self-pride. It is a powerful color and should suit your personality. Exude self-belief and you will find that the red color you wear is a winner.

What colors go well with Red ?

You can easily go overboard with red, if it is paired with other bright colors, especially with complementary colors. The high contrast look may make you look e too dramatic ; Think of a Christmas tree – green and red.

But one way to mitigate this startling effect is to use complementary colors as a small accent. Like a purse or a clip.

Monochromatic colors of red shades in the color wheel can be a good combination.Try self colored prints on red; if doing embroidery red on red can take on a multi-dimensional look which is still understated.

You can combine Red beautifully with shades of red like pink, maroon etc. Check out the post on fashion color wheel to know more about color combinations like this

Red and blue; Red and Pink; Red and white ; Red and Black ; Grey and Red are all great combinations. Black is an often used color with red. White also goes well with red.

How to accessorize a red dress

Best accessory to wear with red is your own self-confidence.

As for the color of accessories try nude or neutral color accessories with red, because you do not want more drama with this color.

If you want to wear metal jewelry with a red dress choose antique gold. The yellow sheen of the Real gold can make you look garish.

Silver is another attractive color combination for jewelry along with red.

Caring for red colored clothes

Red dyes run/bleed, especially on brand new clothes so be very careful when washing red garments.

Do not oversoak or use harsh detergents. Red colored clothes are very susceptible to fading. Soak the clothes in a teaspoon of vinegar before washing ; this can set dyes and prevent fading to a degree. Salt is also said to do the trick.

Check out the post on washing and caring for dark colored clothes

Reference : Meaning of Red