It is the color of danger, rage and passion, and can also be a powerful aphrodisiac – we speak, of course, of red.
The red rose is a sign of love, and studies have shown that those who wear red in their dating profile photos are more likely to generate a response. That’s what Valentine’s Day is for the it’s time to channel your inner Elizabeth Taylor.
Today pink, a softer sister of red, is more associated with femininity, youth and romance; but up until the 1920s it was an expression of masculine characteristics, and was loved by courtly sinners in the 18th century. Since we might blush when flirting, pink plays its own role in the art of seduction.
It can have as much influence as red: some of the most significant fashion events of the past 12 months have been in pink (see Florence Pugh in Rodarte at the British Independent Film Awards, or Elle Fanning in Armani Privé at Cannes), and Viva Magenta is Pantone’s color of the year. And it’s not just for the nails: it looks so striking with gray hair, it’s also a favorite of A-list silver foxes, such as Succession’s Jeremy Strong.
You might need a little courage to embrace the red/pink end of the color spectrum, but even a swipe of crimson lipstick can have a transformative effect.
Above all, there is something joyous about these tones. It’s hard to feel blue when you’re wearing red or pink – so no matter what week it is, these colors will work for all kinds of Valentine’s celebrations.
Florence Pugh in pink at the British Independent Film Awards last year
Marilyn Monroe turned scarlet in 1955
Timothée Chalamet is red hot in 2022
Sophia Loren wore a crimson bodice in 1957
Paris Hilton splashed out in neon pink and red in 2001
Lady Diana Spencer wore a sparkling cherry dress 1981
Jeremy Strong opts for magenta velvet at the 2022 SAG Awards
Romantic your style with these pieces…
Clockwise from top left: silk cashmere vest, £290, Issue Twelve; Mohair jumper, £245, Être Cecile; Silk satin dress, £310, Physician; garnet and gold-plated earrings, £250, According to Pariah; Leather ballet flats, £163, Margaux
Clockwise from top left: Crepe Shirt, £69, foot; Single breasted coat, £65, Marks & Spencer; Wide leg high-waisted trousers, £85, Boden; Leather bag, £400, ATP Atelier
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