I know that I’ve always been attracted to red. A piece of red furniture in a room looks sophisticated, a red door on a house always looks welcoming, a red sweater makes me feel confident and red high heeled shoes make me look powerful. So what is it about red that gets us all hot ‘n’ bothered for Valentines day? Here are some fun facts on the history of this intense colour. You might want to talk about them on your date tonight as you sip red wine, enjoy a juicy red steak and devour a bowl of fresh red strawberries for dessert!
Don’t forget to re-apply your red lipstick!

• Red is an emotionally intense color, it stimulates a faster heartbeat and breathing. A red dress attracts attention and captures the imagination

• A red rose is the symbol of love and fidelity. According to the Greek legend red roses arise from the blood of Adonis who was killed by a wild boar on a hunt.

• Red roses are dedicated to Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love.

• Red is power, hence the red power tie for business people and the red carpet for celebrities and VIPs

• In some cultures, red denotes purity, joy, and celebration. Red is the color of happiness and prosperity in China and may be used to attract good luck.

• Red is often the color worn by brides in the East while it is the color of mourning in South Africa.

• In India, a red mark on the forehead is said to bring good luck.

• Roman brides were wrapped in a fiery red veil, the flammeum, which should warrant love and fertility. Greek, Albanian and Armenian brides wear red veils even today.

• Red garlands and red scarves were part of wedding customs in many cultures. Red wedding gowns were en vogue in Nurnberg of the 18th century.

• Red gemstones can be used to strengthen the body, promote courage, will power and add vitality. Carry a gem, jewel or place red gemstones around your home or office to stimulate this energy.