From runways to the streets, the red hue is spreading like wildfire. But, like any bold trend, creating the right red look takes some knowledge and practice. We’re here to help…

Before you go haphazardly throwing on every piece of ruby, crimson, and candy apple red clothing that you own, read this. Whether it’s your favourite hue or your first time rocking the shade, we can show you how to wear red the right way.

Why So Red!

• Red as a colour has a distinct history. It is an emotionally intense color that, according to psychologists, fuels the metabolism.
• For millennia, wearing red clothes expressed legitimization of social status, political authority, religious rank, ancestry, and cultural identity. T
• he earliest proof of dyed thread dates back to the sixth millennium BC in Turkey, and it was red.
• Another ancient example is given by the Egyptians who wrapped their mummies in red linen cloths, a color linked to Osiris, ruler of the underworld. Red dyestuffs were particularly expensive because of their limited availability, making red cloth even more desirable.
• When cochineal from Mexico was introduced to Europe in the first part of the sixteenth century, it soon supplanted all the other red dyes. It revealed itself to be an amazingly powerful dye, so much more intense, bright, vivid, and durable than any of the old world’s reds.
• In Europe and in the East, cochineal became one of the most sought-after items, a true commodity that changed the dynamics of the global trade.
• Cochineal was also used as a pigment by artists such as Tintoretto, Rubens, Van Dyck (Figs. 10-11), Rembrandt, Velasquez, and later by Turner and Van Gogh. Today, it is employed in cosmetics for lipstick and rouge.

Fashion Journey

• Cochineal was also used as a pigment by artists such as Tintoretto, Rubens, Van Dyck (Figs. 10-11), Rembrandt, Velasquez, and later by Turner and Van Gogh. Today, it is employed in cosmetics for lipstick and rouge.
• Red continued to persist, however it was used mainly for draperies, curtains and upholstery.
• n the middle of the seventeenth century the military and political leader Oliver Cromwell redesigned the infantry coats of the British army. The elegant woolen cochineal red uniforms would characterize the British army from that moment until the end of the 19th century
• In the 1670s-80s, the court of Louis XIV at Versailles disseminated the fashion of wearing talons rouge (red heels) to all European courts.
• In the eighteenth century the use of red dyes was directed mainly to upholstery and tapestry. One of the finest examples is the Tapestry Room from Croome Court.
• During the Napoleonic empire, at the beginning of the nineteenth century, red continued to embody power (Fig. 12), but it had almost disappeared by the end of the century.
• n the early twentieth century, inspired by this movement, the Spanish-Italian fashion and textile designer Mariano Fortuny, used natural dyes for his dresses, and with his work cochineal saw a new ascent in the world of fashion
• The designer Valentino has made the color red his trademark: his red is iconic, elegant, and grand

Today, red is not as symbolically charged as it was in the past, but it still is not a color for everyone. It is a difficult color to wear; red requires a certain amount of self-confidence and still today it has connotations of strength and power.

How To Wear Red

Red All Over

• Extroverts and daring fashionistas will love rocking this season’s red trend from head to toe. Although it may be a bold look, going red all over is completely on-trend and incredibly stylish.
• So, if there was ever a time to rock a pair of red pants with a red blazer, red top, and red shoes, it is now.
• While there are numerous ways that you can wear the look, consider opting for a bottom and jacket in matching shades. Then, mix things up with a top that’s either lighter, darker or patterned.

Red Bottoms

• Not quite ready to go red all over? That’s not a problem. How about focusing on your legs instead? Opting for a pair of red pants or a red skirt can still create statement style without feeling over the top.
• To keep the look balanced, just remember to make your legs the focus of your outfit. As such, completing your look with basic colours and classic designs is an excellent option.
• Something as simple as a red midi skirt with a white T-shirt, denim jacket, and black sneakers can look seriously chic.

Red Coats and Jackets

• When it comes to rocking this trend in cold weather, there’s no better way than with a red coat or a jacket.
• The chic outfit addition will instantly turn up the drama and style of your look for an impressive ensemble.
• Whether you choose a trench coat, cape, blazer, or leather jacket, make it bold and eye-catching.
• Also, remember to keep the rest of your look minimal and subdued. Your favourite black pants, a turtleneck sweater, and a pair of low, block heels will do the trick nicely.

Red Tops

• The best thing about a bold colour like red is that it can turn any garment into a statement piece.
• As such, the hue is perfect for tops and can make simple styles stand out, and unique designs really shine.
• So, whether you’re rocking a pair of jeans with a red T-shirt or a pair of velvet trousers with a red ruffle top, you’re sure to look trendy and stylish.
• Just remember to make the most of your red top by forgoing a jacket and avoiding any other bold hues.

Red Patterns

• Patterns can be a fun and playful way to rock the red trend this season. Although they can often seem more intense than block colours, patterns can actually subdue a vibrant red hue by breaking up the bright tone.
• Therefore, rocking a red patterned design is an excellent way to ease into this season’s hottest trend. All you need to do is pick your favourite option.
• While florals are always a lovely choice, you should also consider checks, tartan, gingham, and stripes.

 Red Accessories

• Don’t shy away from this trend just because you prefer a more minimal colour palette.
• The beauty of this season’s hottest trend being a colour is that it’s so versatile and can be tailored to suit anyone.
• So, if you don’t quite feel like rocking a red outfit, why not opt for red accessories instead? Thanks to their bold hue, these fiery accessories can make a statement without appearing too intense.
• Just remember to stick to one or two pieces and keep the rest of your outfit neutral.