The Power Of Wearing The Colour Red

Over the past several years, red has become increasingly dominant on the catwalks, and in fact, this year, it ruled the runways completely, from Simone Rocha and Roksanda Ilincic to Versace and Valentino. Why? Perhaps because we’ve begun to see more women of power and influence choose red, reaffirming it as a colour of confidence and assertiveness. From Michelle Obama to Hillary Clinton, female politicians have been re-appropriating this once inappropriate shade. Businesswomen too. Three years ago, when Facebook COO and founder of Leanin.org Sheryl Sandberg appeared on the cover of Forbes magazine, she wore red, while fashion tycoon Natalie Massenet chose an exquisite red Ralph & Russo suit to accept her damehood from Buckingham Palace last year. Red is becoming the signifier of success rather than sex, which is probably why so many more celebrities now choose it for their red carpet appearances – Alessandra Ambrosio, Miranda Kerr, Ginnifer Goodwin, Karlie Kloss, Emilia Clarke and Dakota Johnson to name just a few this year.

For more on the power of wearing red, pick up the December issue of IMAGE. Out now.