color inspiration {february} :: red
February 24, 2012
Red is hot, the color of fire and blood. It’s a strong color that conjures up a range of seemingly conflicting emotions from desire to violence and warfare, Cupid and the Devil. It associated with energy, war, danger, strength, power, determination as well as passion, desire, and love.
Red is a very emotionally intense color and invokes strong feelings. It has very high visibility, which is why stop signs, stoplights, and fire equipment are usually painted red. In historic representation, red is used to indicate courage.
A stimulant, red is the hottest of the warm colors. It enhances human metabolism, increases respiration rate, and raises blood pressure. Studies show an actual physical effect, increasing the rate of respiration and raising blood pressure. The expression seeing red indicates anger and may stem not only from the stimulus of the color but from the natural flush (redness) of the cheeks, a physical reaction to anger or physical exertion. Red is power, hence the red power tie for business people and the red carpet for celebrities and VIPs (very important people).
Flashing red lights denote danger or emergency. Stop signs and stop lights are red to get the drivers’ attention and alert them to the dangers of the intersection.
In some cultures, red denotes purity, joy, and celebration. Red is the color of happiness and prosperity in China and may be used to attract good luck.
Red’s element is, Fire.
Ideas for Using Red:
- Use the color red to grab attention and to get people to take action.
- A red inspiration journal to ignite your passionate ideas.
- Wear red when your feeling bold and don’t want to sink into the background.
- Use red to suggest speed combined with confidence and perhaps even a dash of danger.
- A little bit of red goes a long way… a red accessory, bright red toenails, red glittery earrings, etc.
- Multiple shades of red and even pink or orange can combine for a cheerful palette.
- Add red flowers to a room to suggest passion and sensuality
- Add a splash of red in your visual marketing.
- Sprinkle on some red for good luck.

