Raise your hand if you’re an introvert! Though the word can sometimes conjure a vision of someone who is antisocial, it really refers to how you replenish energy—and introverts do that alone as opposed to with others, the way extroverts do. While there are myriad factors that contribute to how an introvert can feel in any given situation, one small but important aspect is the color of their clothing.
Lisa Lawless, PhD, CEO of Holistic Wisdom, says introverted people may have more social anxiety or feel the need to mask more in social situations, which can be exhausting. “That is why using soothing colors that reflect their personality and preferences is a good rule of thumb,” she says. To learn which specific colors can help introverts feel more grounded, centered, and at ease, keep reading.
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According to a 2021 study conducted by the Soochow University in China and published in the International Journal of Engineering Research & Technology (IJERT), blue is the color most associated with trust.
“This is why many banks and news organizations use it,” Lawless explains, adding that it’s a great hue for introverts because it “allows them to enjoy color without drawing a great deal of attention to themselves.” And by giving off trusting vibes, you’ll still be well-received by others, even if you are feeling a bit shy.
Color consultant Jill Kirsh recommends that those with dark brown, black, or salt-and-pepper hair wear cobalt blue. She says those with golden brown or red hair should opt for teal blue, and warm blondes should try aqua. Those with gray or ash blond hair should don periwinkle or cadet blue.
Soft greens, such as sage and seafoam, can provide a reflection of an introvert’s peaceful demeanor, while light gray tones can give a sense of quiet strength, Lawless notes. “Pastels can provide a feel for color while not overwhelming the introvert or those around them.”
These can also include soft pinks, lilacs, and blues, which create an air of approachability and comfort. Kirsh likes mint green for those with ash blonde or gray hair and avocado green for those with golden brown or red hair.
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If you’re an introvert, you might want to try putting it in neutral. Lawless recommends hues found in nature, such as cream, tan, and brown. These are well-known calming colors, and they’re a good choice if you don’t want to be the center of attention (say by wearing a neon pink dress).
As for which exact shades might look best on you, Kirsh recommends charcoal gray for those with dark brown, black, or gray hair and camel or ivory for those with warm blonde hair.
Lawless says that sometimes introverts prefer deep or bold colors, which can provide them with a sense of balance. “Black is often worn by highly introverted people as it allows them to feel their own power and offers a sense of grounding.”
Plus, a 2021 study published in the Color Research & Application journal found that black is the most attractive color one can wear. Amber Lee, a relationship expert and CEO of Select Date Society, previously told Best Life that she recommends this color for first dates. “Black is elegant, sophisticated, and classy.”
At the end of the day, however, Kirsh maintains that everyone can wear basically every color, introverts and extroverts alike. “It’s just about knowing your best shades of that color,” she says. “When you’re confident in all your color choices, your attention is directed outward into the world versus back onto yourself—feeling shy, reticent, and unsure about the way you’re coming across to others.”
