Coca-Cola is famous for its white scripted text on a distinct bright red background. The color red in marketing portrays power, excitement, energy and passion. It also stimulates the appetite, which makes it an excellent choice when branding food or drink.

Studies have also shown the color red can trigger impulse buys (which is a great trait for any product if you are the manufacturer). The white swirling letters also simulate passion. White is viewed as a brilliant color, making it perfect for signage due to its eye-catching qualities.

There was a time in the 1980s when “Coke” was struggling a bit with brand recognition. They had released Diet Coke and Cherry Coke, and the lack of consistent colors coupled with the scripted Coca-Cola logo being replaced with a block-like Coke logo caused these different flavor variations to be seen as competition instead of all in the same cola family. It was also found that there were variations in Coca-Cola’s “one true red.” The color differed from country-to-country, state-to-state and even from store-to-store! Once these issues were dealt with, the Coca-Cola family became consistent in its branding and continues to rank as the world’s most popular soda. It has been reported that 94% of the world’s population recognize Coke’s red and white logo,  and Coca-Cola has claimed that its name is second to “okay” as the most understood term in the entire world! At least I’ll be able to ask for a Coke if I’m ever stranded in Puerto Rico.

Navy and Gray

Navy is the go-to color for interviews. It appears serious, while not drab. Wear a navy suit or slacks to an interview or important business meeting to give a good impression of your professionalism, work ethic and attentiveness to the situation. Gray works in a similar nature. Men should wear a darker gray suit, while women can wear a lighter tone gray pantsuit for a good interview outfit.

Black

Black is a strong color and, likewise, emits a strong message. If you wear black, some people will think that you are serious and powerful. Black is a dominant color in fashion and can also make people think that you are in style. However, black can also appear drab at times. Counteract any negative association with black by wearing bright accessories or accent pieces. For example, women can carry a bright purse or wear a bright scarf. Men can tuck in a colorful handkerchief or wear a bright tie.

Purple

Purple is commonly seen in royal images and is therefore associated with a regal or luxurious lifestyle. It is also a color that shows loyalty. Wear this color if you are meeting new friends or potential romantic partners to give off an air of sophistication and a trustworthy nature. This color can also give off a good first impression during a negotiations process at work.

Red

Red is a bold color and should only be worn in situations when you are trying to give a good first impression. Red is associated with anger and aggressiveness such as you see in a bull pen. Wear this color if you want your client to appreciate your aggressive nature to land an important deal or be the dominant figure in a work conflict.

Pink

Pink is a soothing and romantic color. Women who wear pink on dates show their softer side, while men who are courageous enough to wear pink display their confidence and assurance in their own masculinity. Because pink has the psychological effect of slowing people down, avoid wearing this color in high-impact work situations.

Yellow

Yellow color tones make a good impression if the person wearing it has a warm coloring. Warm complexions usually have an undertone that is red, peach or yellow. Gold, brown, yellow and ivory clothing and makeup complement a person with a warm complexion. These colors give off a happy and rich impression.

White

White is a soft color that evokes the impression of innocence. It also helps to tone down bolder and darker colors. White is an appropriate color for many work and social functions that involve a first meeting.

I would explain color to a blind person as follows: For example, I would say what objects are in that color. For example, orange would explain that carrots and oranges are that color