Introduction

Using different shades or textures allow us to signal actions, influence mood or reactions. Kendra Cherry, a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist describes how certain colours affect our physiology by increasing metabolism or blood pressure. Karen Haller, the colour psychologist says “Colour is one of these amazing forms of self-expression”. With colours we can communicate our feelings without even saying a word.

How about adding an extra gadget to your outfit? A little accessory which will show off your personality. With our guide which compares Nomad straps for Apple Watches, you can check which colour suits you best! Take a look at our colour breakdown to find out more.

Psychology of colour

Colour psychology is the theory stating how colour (its tone, hue and shade) affects our feelings and behaviour. Medical studies show that colour-related emotion is dependent on our personal preference and past experience with the particular colour. Of course, it can vary depending on personal preferences and culture (Maybray). These days people use the psychology of colour in architecture, interior design, marketing, entrepreneurship and fashion.

However, according to Dr. Kamlesh Jha from the Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care, red colour correlates with an increase in blood pressure, while the blue colour is associated with a decrease. Cool tones tend to calm down, whereas warm colours energise.

Jessica Davis in her article for Harper’s Bazaar mentioned “colour associations” for example wearing black to funerals or white (for the bride) on wedding days. Ape to Gentleman, a modern, men's fashion & lifestyle blog, describes traditional colours and their associations.

• For traditional job interviews it is more common to choose neutral shades, whereas for creative business meetings something more live and bright.
• For weddings we should wear anything but white or black, but on first dates when the good impression is crucial we should go for a confident colour like red or pink.

However, in some cultures (e.g in China) white, not black is recognised as the symbol of death. This example shows that certain colour associations are specific to a region, culture or specific situation.Changing the colour of our clothes or accessories can cheer us up and make us more confident. Those small changes can affect our mental health which can result in positive feelings and productivity.

Colour breakdown

Blue

Space Refiner describes blue colour as being the most productive. It helps achieve balance and calmness. For the workspace, blue helps employees stay focused, which increases productivity and performance. This colour can be associated with water like the ocean or the sky can give a feeling of happiness and peacefulness. However, Colour-Affects describe blue as an intellectual shade, which affects us mentally, rather than the physical reaction caused by the red colour. According to studies shown by the Zeven Design portal, blue is favourable among males, representing masculine energy. Dark blue can represent stability, knowledge and integrity, whereas light shade can be associated with health.

Orange

This colour is a combination of red (energy & stimulation) and yellow (happiness & cheerfulness). Orange is considered to be an extroverted colour. If you love orange, you are definitely a fearless, social and funny person! The colour brings a high level of positivism, that’s why every day, especially in the most difficult moments we should use one orange item (Colour Psychology). It can be anything, even our Blaze Sport strap from Nomad. According to How to Artist orange is often used in warning because it catches our attention. It can also give a feeling of excitement, joy, warmth and vitality. Orange colour can bring a memory of oranges, flames or sunsets.

Green

Colour green is closely related to nature which can result in stress relief and peacefulness. The Space Refinery portal describes green as the colour that boosts creativity while balancing our mind, body and emotions. Moreover, this colour is associated with luck because it brings back the memory of the four-leaf clover. Green also enhances improvement in memory and positive thinking. Many TV presenters before going live spend a couple of minutes in a green walled room to prepare themselves before the show. The idea behind it is that this colour will help them relax and focus (Colour Psychology). People who love green are usually analytical, logical and knowledgeable.

Black, white & grey

Neutral colours like black, white or grey which are the base of the colour palette can reflect maturity, luxury and professionalism. Usually they are used in combination with other, brighter and more vivid shades.

White which is the mixture of red, green and blue light, is the opposite of black. This colour gives simplicity and purity, while black power and mystery. This colour is sterile and clean bringing clarity and efficiency, usually is used as a background for other colours. Studies describe white as especially powerful in feng shui, a system of getting harmony from our closest environment. Grey on the other hand can be seen as a practical and serious colour. It is said that grey is the only colour without a direct psychological property, which can result in neutrality and calmness. Black can indicate sophistication, glamour, heaviness and security. Colour-Affects specialists describe black as being a specific colour that absorbs other shades, and works well with white giving a well balanced combination. Many prestigious brands like Chanel or Mercedes use black to indicate their position on the market.

Have you found “the one”...?

There is an endless palette of colours and its shades. Each of them is unique and can communicate our actions, emotions and intentions. We highly recommend experimenting with colours to find those, matching your style and mood. Which Nomad strap is your favourite? Our team picks are Lunar Grey and High Volta. We simply can’t choose between those two. If you would like to discover more, check our Megamac website to search for more.