The Power of Color

“Life is Better in Color” is Tepper Jackson’s motto. We live, breathe and favor all things beautiful and colorful; so for this post we wanted to discuss the different meanings of colors, their cross cultural interpretations and how best to convey a message or mood by wearing a suitable color.

Is the need for color embedded in our DNA? This is a question that extends beyond the scope of this blog, but suffice to say we use color on a daily basis and have somewhat become experts on the matter. Think about the long term commitment we make when we choose a color for our home? As casual practitioners of the ancient, yet popular practice of Feng Shui, some colors are credited with creating a balance in the energy of our homes and lives (Blue = Tranquility, Black = Success, Purple = Spiritual Awareness, White = Purity). Another Eastern philosophy, the Hindu practice of Chakras or “Force Centers”, believes that the human body is a recipient of positive and negative energy. There are seven main Chakras symbolized by colored crystals; each located throughout the body’s nervous system, from the skull to the bottom of the spine. This practice was revisited by Western medicine in the 1940’s and is now applied as an alternative/holistic treatment. It is suggested that the energy released from the colored stone to the corresponding body part can be therapeutic. For example, a Blue stone placed on the throat can heal a sore throat.

Here is a brief over view of how the three primary colors relate to certain cultures and how they can be used as spiritual remedies.

Red is known to be a stimulating and empowering color. It is also the color of Passion, often used by both genders to seduce or draw attention. A 2008 study by the Rochester University psychologists concluded that Red enhances men’s attraction to women. Men were tested by being exposed to pictures of women and asked to describe how attracted they were to them. The results were convincingly clear: Women wearing red garments were said to be significantly more attractive and sexually desirable than the one’s wearing other colors. Spiritually, Red is the color of the root Chakra, the base of the spine, which is thought to stimulate courage and energy, help with stability, and more importantly guarantee physical health.

According to a survey conducted by webcenters.com, Blue is the world’s favorite color. It is considered to be a soothing color; it is the color of trust and commitment. However darker shades of Blue are often associated with depression and sadness. The term “feeling Blue” comes from an old nautical custom whereby a ship’s crew would honor their dead captain with a Blue flag at the mast and a Blue band painted along the ship’s hull. Conversely, “Blue light therapy” is a remedy against both depression and insomnia. The exposure to blue light can help compensate for the absence of sunlight during the long winter and prevent the “winter Blues”. Spiritually, Blue is the throat Chakra. It is linked to our neck, arms and hands; it is the essence of speech and hearing.

Yellow is considered to be the color of Optimism and Enlightenment. Indeed shades of golden Yellow are believed to bring a positive future; and let’s not forget that “Gold” itself is a precious and valuable material. Coincidence? Although, according to colormatters.com, lemon bright yellow is the color that is most irritating to our eyes. For example, babies will cry more in a yellow painted bedroom and couples are subject to more fights if they are surrounded by yellow. So if you’re fan, we advise you to reconsider and minimize the usage of Yellow in your living and working environment. Spiritually, Yellow is the color of the solar plexus Chakra which includes the stomach, the liver, skin and the whole muscular system; it is known to empower a person, promote personal strength, vitality and will.

Consciously or unconsciously, garments and more specifically the colors we choose to wear influence the way people perceive us. Sometimes whole personas are created around colors. Want to look mysterious? Well, black is your color (think of Zorro, Ninjas, and Darth Vader). Want to look sexy and passionate? Red is the go to color (Jessica Rabbit, Marilyn Monroe in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes). Want to convey a natural/ healthy look? Then any shade of green will do the trick (most logos trying to convey their eco friendliness will have green in them).

It is important that we acknowledge the benefits and pitfalls of colors in our lives. Although we may not pay attention to it, colors do influence our physical, mental and spiritual well being. We should not underestimate their ill effect which can be harmful or negative. So the next time you decide to treat yourself to a Blue necklace or pair of earrings, you might not only be making a fashion statement, but you might also enhance your speech or become a better listener.

Flower Power

Spring is right around the corner and we’re excited at the idea of rising temperature and most definitely ready to put this harsh winter behind us.

Taking a look at this spring offerings, one trend is certain, “Flowers” are playing a predominant theme in the collections showcased by today's top designers. Indeed, Galliano masterfully used ornamental flowers as neck accessories to accent his vision, while Vera Wang and Anna Sui featured fun and flirtatious flowers by adorning light and ethereal dresses, skirts and blouses with water colored flowers.

Perhaps at a time when being eco-conscious is becoming mainstreamed (or fashion statement?), designers want to remind us of Mother Nature’s fragility. Perhaps they are paying homage to the ritual of spring.

Embracing both concepts, Tepper Jackson’s latest collections feature the Blossom design with its bold and colorful flowers and the Lotus design which uses for inspiration a modern day version of Moorish tile design. In the pursuit of using more natural textiles, we are printing our playful designs on double printed 18oz canvas that is both durable and environmentally conscious. Say ‘Goodbye’ to winter with its load of extra layers, and say “Hello” to spring with its airy and romantic feeling.

This photo is property of Tepper Jackson.

Official start to Summer 2010

Happy Summer 2010,

It has been a while since we have posted on our blog. I plan on updating our blog at least once a week (that is between updating our facebook page, tweeter updates, online sites)...

I'm very proud with the release of our newest collections: Bloom and Lotus. Both groups will be made of 18 oz canvas and will include a total of (9) new silhouettes in the travel category and (2) new silhouettes in the loungewear category. Both designs are somewhat a departure from our previous aesthetics. We have spent about six months developing and fine tuning our fall collections and I find it very difficult to distance myself and be objective. People always ask me: What is your favorite design? My answer is always the same: It is like asking a parent which one of your children do you love the most? Stay tuned for additional details.


The summer of 2010 will be in my mind forever associated with the World Cup that is currently playing out in South Africa. The location of the WC is particularly significant given that 17 years ago Blacks in South Africa were not allowed to attend a soccer match in the national stadiums throughout South Africa. It also pleases me to see that US is finally catching WC fever as it has been almost impossible for me to find an empty table at my favorite pub to watch the game...this is certainly a change from 4 years ago. I know that most expect Brazil to be a finalist, but how "awesome" would it be if the US team made it to the final...US vs Brazil final?

Holiday Sample Sale!!

It’s that time of the year again… Tepper Jackson's Holiday Sample Sale!!
Huge selection at ridiculously reduced prices!

Tepper Jackson will be offering 40%-80% off retail prices on items such as Carry All Bags (Retail $110.00 Sample Sale $25.00) and Plush Terry Bath Robes (Retail $150.00 Sample Sale $40.00)!

When: Tuesday Dec. 8th- Friday Dec.11th
Monday Dec. 14th - Thursday Dec. 17th
Time: 10am-6pm
Where: 254 5th Avenue (between 28th & 29th street)
5th Floor
New York, NY 10001
Ph. 212-629-9500
Payment Methods: Cash, Visa, MasterCard, American Express.
No personal checks accepted.

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Tweet, tweet, a little birdie told me that Tepper Jackson joined Twitter!


If you're on twitter follow us @tepperjackson.

Sample Sale Time!

It's the most wonderful time of the year....

Tepper Jackson + Nick & Nora's Sample Sale!

We're going to be offering a huge selection at rediculously reduced prices!
Tepper Jackson will be offering 40%-80% off retail prices on items such as Carry All Bags (Retail $110.00 Sample Sale $40.00) and Plush Terry Bath Robes (Retail $150.00 Sample Sale $40.00)!
“Nick & Nora” the defining sleepwear collection will be offering its' whimsical and ultra comfy pajamas, robes, and slippers at 40-60% off retail! This is a great opportunity for all Nick & Nora fans to pick up their favorite designs in time for the Holidays!
Also, Nick & Nora will be opening their archives on their iconic scarves and shawls. This is a once in a lifetime chance for Nick & Nora collectors and fans! These are now vintage Nick & Nora pieces and are truly collectors’ items!

Who: Tepper Jackson + Nick & Nora
What: Sample Sale (50-80% off retail prices)
When: December 8th-11th & December 14th-17th
Time: 10am-6pm
Where: 254 5th Avenue (between 28th & 29th street)
5th Floor
New York, NY 10001
Ph. 212-629-9500
Payment Methods: Cash, Visa, MasterCard, American Express

Give a Gift that's InStyle

Believe it or not holiday season is right around the corner.

Tepper Jackson's Multi Dot Luggage Tag is currently being featured as a great gift for InStyle Magazines regular Best of the Web story.