Using color to send a message

Last week, Rep. Maxine Waters spoke to reporters about the House Ethics Committee investigation into her involvement in the banking industry. She wore green:

In most cases, I would caution you against placing too much emphasis on the iconography of color. It doesn't really matter what a particular color "means" if it doesn't look great on you.

But in this case, Rep. Waters's choice of spring green, which does look great on her, was a shrewd choice because of the meaning of that color as well. On other occasions, we have frequently seen Rep. Waters in black, gray or red, which are good colors for her in general. Those colors also connote strength, power and authority. But in this instance, when she is trying to counter allegations of abuse of power, black would read as severe and red as aggressive. This warm, clear green conveys an impression of honesty, cleanliness, calm and reassurance. I can think of no better choice to accomplish her goals here.

Bold look, bold accessories

Rep. Maxine Waters chose a conservative gray jacket and a very bold silver necklace for a House Judiciary Committee hearing on the proposed Comcast-NBC merger:

This necklace is a difficult piece to pull off, but Ms. Waters does it beautifully. It works for her because:

• She has prominent facial features in proportion to the rest of her face. A prominent nose, full lips and big eyes balance out this bold pattern just below her face.
• The rest of her outfit is very simple. The jacket and blouse are in neutral colors with very simple lines, allowing her necklace to become the focal point.

How do you pull off your favorite bold accessories?