Everyone knows that red is associated with passion and romance. You only have to look at the colour of the aisles in every shop as Valentine’s Day approaches. Why is it that red has such an impact, and how can you use it in your own life?
History
Different colours have always been assigned different associations in human society. The colour red has a long and varied history, but its passionate associations date back thousands of years.
During the time of the Ancient Egyptians, women would make their lips and cheeks redder with makeup. Red nail paint and hennaed hair also contributed to their vivid and passionate appearance.
It was not just the Ancient Egyptians who made use of red. Both Greeks and Romans used red to symbolise sacrifice, but it was also a symbol of love. The Romans also used the colour for their bridal shawls.
Later examples of red being used as a colour of strong feeling include in the works of Vincent Van Gogh. The artist liked to express “the terrible human passions” in red as well as green. Modern red light districts owe their name to the tradition of prostitutes being expected to both wear and light their houses with red.
Today
In astrology, red is the colour of Mars. It is associated with the zodiac sign Aries. People born under this red sign are considered to be fiery and passionate. They are likely to have strong sex drives and live active lives.
This suggests that if you want to appear as a strong, emotional individual, you should wear red. A red maxi dress such as AX Paris red maxi dress will tell the world that you are full of passion.
Red is still also a colour associated with marriage in India. On their wedding day, a husband may apply a red powder called sindoor to the parting in his wife’s hair. It is also worn as a dot on the forehead. The married woman will continue to apply sindoor as a sign she is married, but will stop if she becomes a widow.
If you want to give someone a romantic gift, red roses remain the most classic expression of love. Incorporating red into clothing or presents is a way to continue the long tradition of associating red with passion and romance.
