The Psychology of Colour

How Colours Make US Feel

Colours have a powerful effect on our emotions and behaviour, often influencing how we feel without us even realizing it. Warm colours like red, orange, and yellow can create feelings of energy, excitement, or warmth, while cool tones like blue and green tend to evoke calm, peace, and stability. For example, blue is commonly used in tech and finance because it conveys trust, while red can raise energy levels and is often used to draw attention or stimulate action. Our personal experiences and associations can also shape how we respond to colours — a soft pastel might make one person feel relaxed, while it could remind another of a childhood memory.

Use this colour chart to guide your design decisions

The Symbolism of Colour Across Cultures

However, the meaning of colour is not universal — it shifts across different cultures and contexts. Take red: in Western cultures, it symbolizes love and passion, but it can also represent danger or anger. In China, red is the colour of celebration, luck, and prosperity, commonly seen during festivals and weddings. White is often linked to purity in Western traditions, yet in some Eastern cultures, such as Japan or India, it is associated with mourning and funerals. These differences matter, especially in global design, branding, or marketing. Use this poster to help you pick the right one.