Red can vary in hue from orange-red to violet-red, and for each hue there’s a wide variety of shades and tints ranging from very light pink to dark burgundy with names like scarlet, cardinal, vermillion, crimson, and ruby. In China, India and many other Asian countries red is the color that portrays happiness and good fortune. The color red is also linked with courage, heat, anger, passion and, of course, blood. The terms “raising a red flag,” “red hot,” or even “seeing red,” all have different meanings, but all are synonymous with this vibrant primary color. Red is also associated with the 14th of February, which most of us know as St. Valentine’s Day. We send valentines adorned with red hearts to friends and loved ones, and we wear the color as a symbol of that love.

Fashion designers have used this color to stir emotions from those who wear their garments, as well as those who view it. It’s a sure-fire way to get noticed! I scoured my archives for examples of the use of red in fashion and put together the slide show below to illustrate it.

Some people love red, while others avoid it due to the scrutiny it brings! But, have no fear of red because anyone can wear a shade of red! At Goodwill you’ll notice all of our clothing racks are color coordinated, so it’s easy to go right to the red items. Remember, of course, it doesn’t have to be head to toe! For those who are fearful of red, might I suggest an accessory like a tie, scarf,  handbag, shoes, or even a watch. Then slowly work up to a sweater, skirt, slacks or dress!