Does the colour of your shirt affect your mood? Can it change the way people feel about you? Research says yes; and here’s what we found.

What is Colour Psychology?

Colour psychology is the study of how colours affect your behaviour, mood and impression on others. It is a powerful communication tool and can be used to signal action, influence mood and physiological reactions.

Colour psychology suggests that various shades can have a wide range of effects on how we feel, and how we feel about others. The colour of shirt you choose to buy could tell you something about the type of image you are trying to project, and how you want people to perceive you.

What Does My Shirt Colour Say About Me?

Colour can be an important element when choosing the right shirt, as each colour can affect your mood and energy — potentially sending different messages to those around you. 

Below is a list of classic shirt colours and what they can say about your character: 

  • Blue shirt = honest, dependable and organised
  • White shirt = pure, clean and sophisticated
  • Black shirt = authoritative, professional and powerful 
  • Red shirt = passionate, energetic and confident
  • Pink shirt = compassionate, playful and fun
  • Green shirt = reliable, balanced and safe
  • Yellow shirt = enthusiastic, spontaneous and happy 
  • Orange shirt = optimistic, creative and fun 

What Colour Shirt Should You Wear?

There are two ways you can decide which colour shirt you should choose to wear. You can pick a shirt based on the mood you are already in, or the type of mood you want to be in. For example, if you wake up feeling upbeat and happy, you may want to wear a yellow shirt. If you’re naturally shy and want to appear more confident, try putting on a red shirt for the day.

The Best Shirt Colour to Wear to Work

When heading to the office you should wear colours that convey professionalism and those that will help you perform to the best of your ability. 

A black shirt will help you to be treated seriously, while subconsciously giving you more power and authority. Green shirts denote reliability and safety, which are great characteristics in the workplace. It’s also restful on the eyes — making it a great choice for your new weekly Zoom call. A white shirt is a safe choice that is associated with cleanliness and perfection. 

Finally, a blue shirt will show your colleagues that you are organised and can be trusted in your role.

The Best Shirt Colour to Wear at the Weekend

The weekend provides the perfect opportunity to really show off your personality through your shirt colour. Red is the colour of confidence and passion, making it a great choice for a first date. Yellow is the happiest of all the colours and usually stimulates joy, while pink is compassionate and fun. For those that are optimistic and adventurous, an orange shirt will help to convey such personality traits. 

Shop our full range of shirts for men, or alternatively take a look at what colour formal shirt you should be wearing.