Black. It isn’t a color so much as a lack of color. A blank canvas, a clean slate. It has stayed a stalwart staple as other fads have come and gone. Black is by far the most-used color here at Philippe V, and we’re not alone in loving it. So let’s take a little look at why we are all drawn to the darkness.
The History of Black in Fashion
In 14th-century Europe, black dyes were expensive to produce, and therefore reserved for society’s upper class as a symbol of luxury and extravagance. However, by the 16th century, black took on a few different meanings, ironically being both associated with evil (witchcraft in particular) and with a denial of self in pursuit of virtue (think monks and Puritans).
Different cultures tend to hold very special meanings for black as well. In the Middle East, black is often associated with both death and rebirth. Many people groups in Africa associate black with age and wisdom, but also with masculinity and power.
In 1927, good French fashion mogul Coco Chanel released a women’s fashion line that spawned the “little black dress” craze. 100 years later, it’s still alive and kicking.
Johnny Cash is affectionately remembered as the “Man In Black”, giving a litany of reasons for his iconic look in the beloved song by the same name:
“I wear the black for the poor and the beaten down
Livin’ in the hopeless, hungry side of town
I wear it for the prisoner who is long paid for his crime
But is there because he’s a victim of the times”
Embracing the Darkness
Historical weight aside, we love black for several reasons. For starters, everyone looks great in it. It’s slimming (if that’s what you’re going for), classy, and all-around flattering.
Another case for going black is that it goes with pretty much everything. Regardless of the other colors you’re rocking, a black pair of glasses or black jewelry will compliment them perfectly. And, of course, a black t-shirt lets you layer on your favorite overshirt or jacket with ease.
Whether it’s a pair of sunglasses glasses, a t-shirt, or one of our signature skull rings, we have no shortage of black items to add to your collection.
