Signs and Colors: An Analysis of 10 Popular Sign Colors
How to Choose the Right Color for Your Sign
Color psychology has been a widely-studied theory over the years. Different colors are thought to be capable of affecting our moods, impulses, and decisions without us even realizing it. Because of this, colors can have a huge effect on your marketing and advertising efforts—and choosing the right colors can make sure the effect is a positive one.
As a business owner, you have the opportunity to implement color psychology throughout your brand, including on your business signs. Learn more about some of the most popular sign colors and how you can use them effectively on your outdoor or indoor signs.
1. White signs signify cleanliness, purity, and clarity.
The color white is often calming or reassuring because it gives the rest of your sign some breathing room. It’s associated with cleanliness and purity, which can be associated with offering a clean slate. Too much white space, however, can make your business seem empty or cold, so be sure to find a balance with another color.
2. Black signs are mysterious, seductive, or powerful.
When used correctly, black on a sign can be mysterious and powerful, capturing the interest of consumers and drawing them in to learn more. Too much black, on the other hand, can be off-putting and unappealing. You’ll want to incorporate another color into your sign to soften it up a bit.
3. Red signs signify excitement, impulsivity, and passion.
Red is the ultimate color of passion and excitement, capable of capturing someone’s attention right away. When used effectively, it can help encourage impulse buys (think it’s a coincidence that Target’s main color is red?).
4. Yellow signs are happy, warm, and alert.
Yellow is warm and happy and vibrant, which can make your consumers feel good about choosing to give you their business. Unfortunately, though, people tend to love or hate the color yellow.
5. Blue signs signify trustworthiness, authority, and productivity.
Different shades of blue can help you convey different emotions. Blue signs can help you establish trust among consumers and make them feel more productive, which will help them feel more confident about choosing to give you their business.
6. Green signs are calm, free, and nature-oriented.
Abundant in nature, the color green implies eco-friendly businesses and can evoke feelings of freshness, tranquility, and freedom. You can use green to highlight your recycled materials, fresh ingredients, and more.
7. Purple signs signify creativity, wealth, or depth.
Purple is a more unconventional color, and it’s typically associated with art, creativity, and originality. Deeper purples can also be associated with mystery, wealth, and depth. Whether you’re a fun brand or a higher-end one, purple can be your color.
8. Pink signs are romantic, calming, and feminine.
Pink is usually used to market to women and girls, and it’s typically effective in doing so. It can also be calming and romantic, which can sometimes make it work in other settings as well.
9. Orange signs signify confidence and friendliness but can be seen as aggressive.
Orange is a great accent color and can imply warmth, confidence, and optimism. But like yellow, orange is a bold color and should typically be used sparingly—as it can be aggressive or off-putting.
10. Gray signs are practical, balanced, and mature.
A neutral and balanced color, gray is typically a safe bet. It’s calming and practical, which makes it a good choice for many industries. However, gray can be seen as boring or dull, so it can be overlooked. Avoid this problem by introducing a pop of color into your sign to stand out against the gray!
