The Thailand is a destination renowned for its vibrant culture and breathtaking scenery. However, travellers should be aware of the symbolic meanings of colours in this country, as some may be perceived as offensive or inappropriate.

In Thailand, certain colours are associated with royalty, religion and the days of the week, which influences their symbolic significance. Here are the colours to avoid during your stay in Thailand in order to respect local traditions and customs.

Colours to avoid in Thailand and why

Colours to be avoided or handled with care are :

• Yellow and blue Yellow, the colour of the king, and blue, the colour of the queen, symbolise the monarchy. They are best used to show your respect at royal events or on certain days of the week, such as Monday (yellow) and Friday (light blue).
• Red and green These colours are associated with political movements in Thailand and can lead to misunderstandings. Opt for less bright shades if you wish to wear them.
• Black and white In Thailand, these colours are worn for mourning. Wear them sparingly and avoid them during celebrations.

Lucky colours

According to popular Thai beliefs, certain colours bring good luck, prosperity and health. These include blue, pink and light green.

Blue, associated with the element of water, is considered a soothing colour. Pink, the symbol of love and femininity, promises personal fulfilment and harmonious relationships. As for light green, it evokes growth, youth and vitality.

Although these beliefs do not have a strict religious basis, they bear witness to the central place of colours in the Thai cosmovision. Visitors will be able to draw inspiration from them to create outfits likely to bring them luck.

Putting together respectful outfits

To fit in harmoniously in Thailand, the choice of clothing is essential. Tourists must respect certain rules of etiquette, opting for clothing Loose-fitting and revealing. Plunging necklines and skirts/shorts that are too short should be avoided as they are considered disrespectful.

In addition, you need to be careful with cuts and patterns, as some can be perceived as shocking, such as Buddha prints. Finally, it's a good idea to coordinate your outfit with the day of the week and the events you're planning, so that you fit in smoothly.

How do you match the day of the week with the colour of your clothes?

In Thailand, each day of the week is associated with a specific colour, reflecting a deep respect for local beliefs and traditions. Wearing the right colour on the right day is an appreciated and symbolic gesture, showing your openness and respect for Thai culture. Here's a guide to the colours to wear on different days of the week:

Day of the week	Recommended colour
Monday	Yellow
Tuesday	Rose
Wednesday	Green
Thursday	Orange
Friday	Blue
Saturday	Violet
Sunday	Red

Thailand is a culturally rich destination, where colours have profound symbolic importance. Shades such as yellow, purple and red are intimately linked to religion, politics and the local monarchy.

For visitors, it is therefore essential to be familiar with these dress codes in order to respect traditions and fit in harmoniously. As well as avoiding certain sensitive colours, it is also essential to choose outfits that are appropriate in terms of cut and pattern.

By immersing themselves in these cultural subtleties, tourists will be able to enjoy an enriching and authentic experience in Thailand, while avoiding any sartorial blunders.