Extending the π-system of inverted solvatochromic phenolate-based dyes shifts their inversion point due to an increment in their sensitivity to solvent polarizability

•The solvatochromism of four phenolate dyes of variable π-extension is compared.•All four dyes display inverted solvatochromism.•The extension of the π-system increases the dye’s sensitivity to solvent polarizability.•The extension of the π-system shifts the solvatochromic inversion to higher polarities.•The extension of the π-system does not change the local solvation pattern of the dyes.