How do I change the color of my username and text?

I purchased the color kit this morning, and tried to figure out how to make the changes to the color.

I understand that the various codes need to be used -  such as &1 or &e, but I don't know the command to make the change permanent.

I tried &1 PrimustheOne, and it changed the color of the text, but it was only temporary. Doing it this way, I would have to include the color codes each time I type something in chat. 

I assume there is a way to make it permanent so that I don't have to include the codes every time?

Can someone give the correct command lines please?

Thanks,

P