The power of red

The power of red dates back centuries to a time when vibrant red pigments were very costly. Red dyes had to be imported from far eastern routes.  

Red clothing or shoes were considered luxury items and were worn by royalty to denote wealth and imperial power. In the court of Louis XIV, red heels were restricted to nobility and were a mark of proximity to the king.

Cinnabar was used in Chinese lacquerware and in Roman frescos. Vermillion, a vivid red orange, became a prized pigment in Western art.

The mystique of red lingers to this day. Its bold, hot intensity says ‘look at me’.

If you are that someone who says ‘I can’t wear red’, open your mind to possibilities.

I rarely wore red until a few years ago when I realized it was time to spice up my oh-so-neutral wardrobe.   

There are so many different reds from which to choose: crimson, vermillion, fire engine red, scarlet, venetian red and burgundy to dark port, merlot, cherry and ruby.

If your wardrobe is neutral, start by adding just a note of color: a poppy red or garnet belt or venetian red shoe, a red vest or jacket.

Red lips will brighten things up. Bolder still, is a crisp, red-striped blouse, a fitted red dress, a candy stripe linen sleeveless dress with a red cable knit sweater.

For evening, a tulle gown in begonia, makes quite an entrance. A strapless silk cocktail dress, or a silk slipdress in dark port is the ultimate in colorful, elegant evening dressing.

Sometimes, a red shoe can be all a black outfit needs. If you want to go all out, a red coat over a navy or black dress expresses a confident mood.

More understated is this burgundy flute skirt peeking through a black coat. Another

understated look, while still adding a note of color, would be this burgundy stretch floral t-shirt under a black crepe pant and jacket.

Adding color to your wardrobe can be a big step. Find a red that suits your coloring and give it a go.

Need styling advice? Email me a info@velvetjournal.com for a complimentary one hour styling session.