November is the eleventh month of the year in the Gregorian calendar and has 30 days. It falls between October and December in the northern hemisphere’s autumn season (Clark, 2019). November’s birthstones are topaz and citrine, and its birth flower is the chrysanthemum (Farmers Almanac, 2021). But what is November’s color?
November’s Color is Orange
The color associated with November is orange. Orange represents the vibrant fall leaves and harvest during this autumn month (Bennett, 2021).
The orange color is a mix between yellow and red on the color spectrum. It is a warm, energetic hue that evokes happiness, creativity, and vitality. Orange is often associated with the changing fall season when leaves turn brilliant shades of red, yellow, and orange (Bourn, 2011).
Orange is also connected to Thanksgiving, a major holiday that falls in November in the United States. Thanksgiving decorations and food often feature orange accents, from table runners to pumpkins. The orange color reflects the mood of the holiday – warm, inviting, and cheerful (Bennett, 2021).
History and Symbolism of the Color Orange
The color orange has a long history and symbolic meaning that connects it to November.
The name “orange” comes from the fruit, which was originally called a “naranga” in Sanskrit and Middle English. The first recorded use of “orange” as a color term in English was in 1512 (Harper, 2001).
Orange became an important symbolic color in Europe in the 16th century. It represented fire, strength, and endurance. Protestants adopted the orange color to represent their resistance against Roman Catholicism. In Ireland, the color green was associated with Catholicism and orange with Protestantism (Joules, 2017).
The Orange Order protestant group formed in Ireland in 1795. Irish immigrants brought the orange flag and orange color symbolism to America. Orange became connected with autumn through fall foliage and Thanksgiving (Joules, 2017).
Orange also has symbolic meaning in Buddhism where it represents the transformation of suffering. In Hinduism, orange corresponds to the sacral chakra and is affiliated with strength and endurance (Bourn, 2011).
The color orange promotes happiness and emotional energy. It is associated with joy, sunshine, enthusiasm, and the tropics (Color Psychology, 2022). Orange is an energetic color that motivates and stimulates mental activity. It encourages socialization and connection (Cherry, 2020).
Use of the Color Orange in November
The vibrant orange color is often used in November for fall and Thanksgiving decorations, clothing, and designs.
Popular November birthday flowers like the chrysanthemum and aster come in warm orange hues. Gourds, pumpkins, and fall wreaths incorporate various shades of orange. Thanksgiving decorations also rely heavily on the orange color through accents like candles, table runners, napkins, and place settings (Bennett, 2021).
Orange fashion and clothing stand out in November. Coats, hats, and scarves in shades of orange and rust reflect the autumn leaves. Oranges and browns are commonly paired as November’s colors and used in plaid prints (Harper, 2020).
Many graphic designers and artists feature orange fall leaves and decor in their November work. Orange lettering is also used in Thanksgiving signage and advertisements during November (Joules, 2017).
Psychology of the Color Orange
Orange psychology connects the color to optimism and illumination. It sparks creative thought, promotes socialization, and provides mental stimulation (Bourn, 2011).
The color orange relates to the risk-taking attitude and vitality of autumn. Just as leaves change color before falling, orange reflects change, adventure, and transformation (Cherry, 2020).
Orange helps communication by encouraging exchange of ideas. It inspires connection and enjoyment of conversation. The color also supports emotional expression (Joules, 2017).
However, orange can also promote impulsivity and quick decision-making. Too much orange may feel overwhelming or cause anxiety. But in moderation, orange lifts mood and energizes (Cherry, 2020).
Orange and the Human Body
Orange has several effects on the human body and mind:
- Increases oxygen supply to the brain which stimulates mental activity (Color Psychology, 2022)
- Boosts enthusiasm and interest in social environments (Bourn, 2011)
- Stimulates appetite and dining which connects to Thanksgiving (Bennett, 2021)
- Energizes muscles and provides a burst of activity (Harper, 2001)
- Encourages creativity, emotional expression, and conversation
However, orange can also overstimulate so it is best used in moderation. Overall, orange promotes happiness, connection, and productivity (Cherry, 2020).
Orange Around the World
Orange is an internationally significant color with different meanings across cultures:
- Netherlands: National color representing the Dutch royal family (Color Psychology, 2022)
- Ireland: Represents Irish Protestant identity (Joules, 2017)
- United States: Connected to autumn and Thanksgiving (Bennett, 2021)
- India: Sacred color of Hinduism and Buddhism (Bourn, 2011)
- China: Symbolizes happiness, luck, and prosperity (Color Psychology, 2022)
- Middle East: Represents mourning and loss (Harper, 2001)
While orange has contrasting symbolic meanings in different cultures, it maintains its energetic essence worldwide.
Conclusion
In summary, the color orange is strongly associated with the month of November. Orange symbolizes fall, harvest, and Thanksgiving in American culture. It also represents fire, adventure, and social connection more broadly.
Orange’s blend of yellow cheer and red passion make it an energetic tone. It stimulates the mind and body while encouraging expression and enthusiasm. November’s cool fall vibe pairs perfectly with the warmth and vibrancy of orange.
So when the autumn leaves turn bright shades of orange in November, they reflect the spirit of the month. Orange is a lively color that invigorates and inspires. Next time you see orange leaves, decorations, or clothing, think of the uplifting and insightful qualities of November’s color. Orange brings creativity, joy, and connectedness to the fall season.
