Human beings are visual animals, so it is unsurprising that our sense of sight is arguably one of the most highly evolved in the animal kingdom. We respond to visual stimuli via light waves from a tiny part of the electromagnetic spectrum which is delimited by Ultraviolet light (0.7 microns) and Infra-red (0.4 microns) wavelengths. Within this small band, there is astounding scope for creating colour combinations that enable staff uniforms in all industries to inculcate an air of professionalism for both employees and the public (whatever form that may take) that they engage with.
Colour and psychology
The interpretation of colour is clearly subjective, such that identical businesses with the same client base will likely have completely different interpretations as to what would constitute appropriate corporate clothing. In addition, most colours have cultural connotations that in our modern globalised economy must be considered as circumstances dictate. At the end of the day it comes down to, three simple questions:
- Whom am I seeking to impress and why?
- What message do I want to convey to employees, the public or clients and customers?
- What do the colours I choose say about me as a person?
In the marketing world, the importance of colour is underpinned by the degree of consideration that is given to establishing everything from a suitable dress code to corporate logos within a given business structure. Without a doubt, colour is one of the most important elements that be can be used to project the right impression and having certain combinations of staff clothing is one method that facilitates this objective. The choice of colour combination in team uniforms has a significant impact in how comfortable employees are in projecting the company brand and how clients and / or customers perceive it.
What do different colours mean?
As colour is subjective, there are general observations that can be made as to the suitability of a given combination. Overall, it will depend on circumstances, the situation and the image the employer is seeking to obtrude. In very general terms colours such as red, orange or yellow are considered to be warm and assertive and if the shade is particularly striking the person wearing the clothing will be highly visible. Colours which tend toward the blue, purple or green are seen as cooler colours and are associated with feelings of calmness and tranquillity. In terms of general office suits, these blue colours suggest confidence and approachability. Furthermore, they imbue a sense of trust, credibility and reliability in both men and women and so appropriate for many businesses as the basis of a dress code. Dark blues and greys instil a sense of pride, confidence and authority as well as neutrality in most commercial settings.
There is no correct answer it really does depend on the answers to the questions raised above. In addition, every day is different and so choosing the right colour scheme is an organic and dynamic process that must adapt to changing circumstances.
