"I've been 40 years discovering that the queen of all colors is black." - Pierre-Auguste Renoir
This is the final color in my series of the Psychology of Color. And I left my favorite color for last.
For all of you who know me personally you probably know that I have been wearing black for the most of the past 15 years.
Black is unquestionably the most authoritative and overpowering color. Black is usually associated with death and darkness resulting in a wary feeling of the unknown. However black is also mysterious. It also conveys an air of danger - Bodyguards, the FBI and other security personnel usually wear black to intimidate. Also black is the most popular color for limos since it implies that the person inside is worthy of respect.
Research studies of American football statistics found that teams wearing black uniforms had more disputed plays called against them because referees subconsciously considered them the aggressors - Makes the Steelers look much better when they win a Super Bowl.
In the sixteenth century, Anne of Brittany originated the custom of wearing black during a period of mourning. In my native Cyprus, in some cases widows wear black for the rest of their lives as a form of mourning and remembrance.
In the fashion world, black is truly ubiquitous. We can all thank Coco Chanel and her little black dress for that.
Black is slimming and does not show dirt. (That's actually the reason why I love the color). The words "black tie" on an invitation underscores the importance of an event suggesting formality and elegance. White tie would go a step further. (You can see the psychology of white in my previous blog)
A little more about the Color Black:
- Black implies weight. A black box is perceived as heavier than a white one
- The color black is so widely associated with sophisticated in fashion that any color trend is referred to as "the new Black"
- Musicians in an orchestra usually wear black so as to not draw attention away from the stage performers
- Crossing a black cat in England is actually considered good luck
I hope everyone enjoyed my series of Psychology of color as much as I enjoyed compiling it.
I know everyone has their favorite color and I hope the information I provided just made even more so.
