Want better inflight service? Wear this color. (2024)

A strategic choice could get you more attention

Air travel is such a hassle these days—the crowds, the waiting, the delays and less legroom than ever—that we just want to get it over with. Most of us just want to be comfortable, and dressing for a flight might include some sweats or leggings and a cozy hoodie. But if you put a little thought into your outfit, especially the color you wear, you could have a more pleasant inflight experience.

Studies have shown that the color red has a psychological effect on people. Red is perceived as dominant and more attractive. If you wear red, you’re signaling that you’re pretty much the boss, which could end up getting you preferential treatment.

Stephanie Lee, a writer for the blog Airline Tips, shares that “Airline staff may subconsciously perceive passengers in red as more important or of higher status, leading to enhanced customer service experiences.”

Red is attention-grabbing, so your outfit could result in more attention from flight attendants. Studies like one from the University of Rochester entitled Romantic Red: Red Enhances Men’s Attraction to Women, show that men are more attracted to the color red. So why not try it out on your next flight? Regardless of gender, anything that attracts a little extra (wanted) attention is good.

Wearing red in the airport might help you out too. If you’re looking for an upgrade or just some help sorting out an issue, staff might see you as more powerful, and are more eager to help.

Check out Airport Tips’ full guide to the color red and how it can apply to travel, and see if incorporating the color helps you out on your next flight.

• Gerrish Lopez
  Contributor, New Orleans

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