Burgundy Color Meaning: The Color Burgundy Symbolizes Intensity and Individuality

Burgundy Color Meaning Infographic

This in-depth analysis explains the meaning and symbolism of the color burgundy.

An Overview of Burgundy

Best described as a mix between red and purple, burgundy is a deep hue that’s often mistaken for maroon. Unlike maroon, burgundy has a hint of purple where maroon has more brown to it. Burgundy gets its name from a drink that boasts a similar shade. More specifically, a red wine that comes from France. Burgundy made its ultimate claim to fame about three decades ago. During this era, burgundy lipstick was all the rage. It was the beauty industry that essentially put this hue on the map.

Common Types of Burgundy

Vivid burgundy and old burgundy are the most popular shades of this color. The former bears a striking resemblance to a hair dye product of the same name. With that said, the name immediately stuck. While the origins of old burgundy are unknown, it became sought-after around a century ago.

A Sophisticated Shade

Burgundy is often associated with the rich and famous. This connection has led many to believe that burgundy is sophisticated. When in the presence of burgundy, you may feel more refined. Some people feel more serious when surrounded by the color burgundy. If you’re attempting to focus, consider an environment that features burgundy colors.

Intense

With its red undertones, burgundy is perceived as an intense hue. If you’re looking for comfort and reassurance, you won’t find it with burgundy. This color leads with strength and force, which makes it somewhat intimidating. You won’t ever hear burgundy described as having lighthearted energy. Some even regard burgundy as an uptight shade.

Embodies Power

The color burgundy likes being in charge. It doesn’t take kindly to authority figures. It goes to great lengths to be on top. Its need to be in control makes burgundy pretty tense. However, this also contributes to its ambitious disposition. Burgundy understands that with great power comes great responsibility, and it has no problem taking numerous tasks on.

Individualistic

Burgundy doesn’t care about the status quo. It marches to the beat of its own drum. This gives burgundy the unique edge it desires. Though burgundy is closely related to maroon and red, you won’t find another hue that’s quite like this one. Burgundy attire is thought to be especially eccentric.

Boosts Energy

With its strong presence, burgundy can increase energy levels. If you feel down or in need of rejuvenation, allow burgundy to help. You’ll feel more energized in no time. Colors that are as intense as burgundy generally have this impact on people. Fortunately, burgundy promotes productivity without being overbearing.

Stimulates Appetite

When people see the color burgundy, they can sometimes get hungry. This is great for those who either lack an appetite or get so busy that they forget to eat. Color psychology maintains that burgundy’s dark shade triggers hunger. You may find that you have a hankering for sweets. This is because deep tones are linked to chocolate. What’s more, burgundy can make your heart beat faster, which can lead to cravings.

Introverted

Though most colors enjoy being around other hues, burgundy prefers to keep to itself. It doesn’t like being vulnerable, so it chooses not to open up. Unfortunately, this precipitates isolation. As a result, burgundy can come across as unfriendly. It doesn’t mean to be, but it would much rather sit in silence than get to know other people.

Sympathetic

Burgundy understands the trials and tribulations of life. It’s for this reason why it offers compassion and empathy. If you don’t want to be judged for the hardships you’re experiencing, go to the color burgundy. It’s here where you’ll find an incredible amount of understanding. Best of all, you can rest assured that you’ll be heard.

Summary: Burgundy Color Meaning

Much like any color, burgundy has both positive and negative attributes. Many people are fond of burgundy’s compassionate side, but they don’t appreciate how shy it is. Moreover, though burgundy possesses unique qualities, it’s a control freak. Fortunately, burgundy’s favorable traits outweigh its unpleasant features.

Learn More: Check out my color symbolism chart for a complete list of color meanings.

Burgundy symbolizes: power, intensity, individuality, sophisticated
Effects of burgundy: intimidates, energizes, stimulates, reassures
Positive traits: ambitious, remarkable, unique, understanding
Negative traits: somber, controlling, reserved, timid