Colors speak a universal language!—one that everyone intuitively understands, but hardly anyone consciously uses. They influence how we feel, how others perceive us, and what messages we convey. Their impact is powerful!—and yet it’s often underestimated. Have you ever wondered why you keep reaching for certain colors? Why do some shades immediately appeal to you, while others subconsciously repel you? And what does that reveal about you, your personality, and the impact you have on others?
Our personalities are just as multifaceted and flexible as the colors we wear. Colors are not only an expression of our identity, but also a powerful tool for adapting to different social contexts. Just as we adjust our behavior depending on the situation, we can also use colors to deliberately influence how others perceive us.
This ability to adapt is deeply rooted in our biological and social development. In personality psychology, this is referred to as “situational adaptability”—the ability to flexibly adjust one’s behavior and appearance to the situation at hand. This applies not only to our behavior but also to our clothing and choice of colors.
You can listen to the podcast in the “Radiowissen” section of the WDR 2 media library.
Excerpt from my new book: The Big Book of Color Psychology. Droemer Knauer Available in bookstores starting October 1, 2025
