Black
I am a shade of the shadows, a pigment of darkness. People often disagree about whether I'm a real color or not. Some call me a lack of color altogether. For a color that isn't really a "color", I play a big role in people's everyday choices.
When contrasted against white, I symbolize darkness and evil. Some may find me too harsh and negative. Most associate me with the night. I'm a very popular color in fashion and accessories, but I'm a little too dark to be used in most architecture. In large portions, I feel consuming and powerful.
Where You Can Find Me
Despite my seeming commonality, I'm actually a very difficult color to find in nature. Most things that appear black are actually very close variations of me. Man-made technology, cars, and clothing can be a true black, as well as some hair colors. Certain birds like the raven are also symbolically associated with me as indicating darkness, mystery, or night.
In fashion, I can be found everywhere—shoes, bags, clothes. Both genders have at least one article with my color, but many own more. Some wardrobes are almost completely consisted of me. Like white, I'm considered a basic staple, but connoted with darkness rather than light. Some people like to wear me because I can visually slim someone's body. Others like that I don't make them stand out too much.
Shades of Black
Image courtesy of Ingrid Sundberg
Testimonies About Me
"It's flattering and goes with everything."
"Looks 'emo.'"
"There's less 'risk' in wearing it because it's basic."
"Low-key, mysterious, easy to match."
"It goes with everything."
"Feels boring and harsh to me."
"It's quite plain and I feel like it doesn't reflect my personality."