Few things are more noticeable in a uniform than its colour. It’s the first thing that people notice and the colour of your uniform can send a subliminal message about your brand in general. While colour perception can be somewhat subjective, psychologists have documented its effects on human behaviour. For example, cool colours like blue and green evoke a feeling of calmness while brighter colours like red and yellow stimulate the body and mind. Colours can affect people in subconscious ways and this makes it an effective tool for establishing a solid corporate identity.

The colour of your company’s workwear can affect how people perceive your brand. In a world where the business landscape is becoming more competitive, striking a good first impression is crucial. You have to get your customer’s attention before someone else does or you lose out on potential sales. One way to achieve this is by using the right colour scheme to present your brand image. This can be reflected not just in your design, but your corporate uniform as well. Given that your employees interact with your clients on a daily basis, it’s important that you use colours that are well-thought out.

Here we’ll be taking a look at the best colours to use for a corporate uniform and help you decide which one is right for you.

Black

The colour black represents mystery, discipline, elegance, and power. In the corporate world, a black suit brings forth a more authoritative message. If you want your employees to assert their position as an authoritative force, then a black-coloured suit is the ideal choice. Black is also perfect for a conservative work environment, but be careful when using too much black because it can contribute to a laid-back vibe and affect one’s productivity.

When overused, the colour black can appear rather cold and unapproachable. Consider using it as an accent colour on corporate workwear such as a necktie or scarf for that hint of dominance without being too overpowering.

Blue

The colour blue represents trust, loyalty, dependability, and communication. Colours like navy blue appear professional and trustworthy, which is why most CEOs and high-ranking officials wear suits with this colour. The great thing about wearing a blue uniform is that it works with every skin complexion and makes for a great base colour. You can throw in different accent colours and it’ll match with the colour blue quite perfectly. Cool colours like blue are known for having calming properties. It’s soothing to the eye and communicates feelings of confidence in a subtle manner.

If you want to exude mental acuity and respect, consider wearing a blue uniform. You’ll also notice that some brands have a hint of blue on their logos and designs to attract a sense of loyalty from their target audience. As with the colour black, using too much blue can come across as cold or uncaring. This can be remedied by adding accent colours to balance its properties. Another thing worth noting is that if you spend plenty of time working outdoors, wearing a blue uniform can attract plenty of mosquitoes.

Gray

The colour gray represents practicality, caution, success, and solidity. When you wear a charcoal suit, it sends a message that you are both wise and reliable. Gray colours are the perfect choice for professionals who want to look sleek and sharp. It gives of a strong, commanding vibe like a navy blue suit without looking too authoritative and controlling like a black suit does.

A charcoal gray suit is a versatile workwear that can match almost all corporate environments. Depending on the industry you’re in, you can play around with different accent colours, textures, and patterns to match the gray colour. It allows you to be more adventurous with the shirts and ties you pair it with, giving you an opportunity to display your creative side. The colour gray also makes for a great base colour that compliments warmer tones quite well.

Beige

The colour beige represents warmth, softness, simplicity, and calmness. It’s similar to a charcoal gray suit, but with a slightly more relaxing vibe to it. This tame colour option can make you look classy and professional in almost any corporate setting. If you want to come across as approachable and welcoming, a beige suit is a great choice.

When it comes to neutral colours, nothing gives off more sophistication than a beige suit. Since beige looks great with most hues, adding accent colours will help you create an empowering outfit. The key here is to compliment beige with other neutral colours for that elegant look. Just like the colour gray, you can mix different textures and patterns and pair it with a beige suit if the office environment allows it.

Colour selection tips

Selecting the colours for your corporate uniform is as much science as it is an art. You can flaunt the most fashionable workwear in the entire world, but if the colours  don’t match your brand image, then it’s a lost cause. Understanding how colours affect people can work to your advantage when dealing with clients. These colours are examples of how your workwear can influence you and those around you.

Play around with different colours and see which ones fit your personality and your work environment best. Marry the colours in your outfit well, and you’ll notice a huge difference on how people interact with you on a daily basis.