This article explains how to make unread messages in Microsoft Outlook stand out by using conditional formatting to change their appearance with a different color, font, or style. For example, set up a conditional rule that specifies that all unread messages appear in red. Instructions apply to Outlook 2019, 2016, 2013, and 2010, as well as Outlook for Microsoft 365 and Outlook.com.

Here's how to specify conditions and formatting for incoming messages.

Go to the Display tab and select Display Settings.

In the Advanced Display Settings dialog box, select Conditional Formatting. A set of default rules appears.