The Colour Black and Winter

In winter, shops are often filled with clothing in black. For many, black is the go-to colour – a businesswear staple that’s simple, easy, versatile, and always available.

But is black really a neutral colour that suits everyone?
Is it always a good choice for trousers or shoes?

The answer, unfortunately, is no.
There are many people for whom black is a wonderful or even ideal colour. Just yesterday, I had a client who looked absolutely stunning in it – elegant, striking, and clear. But for many others, black doesn’t serve the desired purpose. Personally, black drains me of freshness and diminishes my presence.

Black carries a strong psychological impact – it often communicates power and authority, which makes it appealing in business contexts. When it’s a good fit, it adds sophistication, conveys strength, or even a touch of mystery. But for this to work, your natural colouring must include very dark tones. If not, black can age you, make you appear harsher or more distant. In some cases, it may even come across as unapproachable – or intimidating. This can be particularly problematic when combined with the belief that “black makes you look slimmer” – an effect that may not be as flattering as we hope.

Conclusion

If your natural colouring includes very dark values – for example, deep brown or black hair, or dark eyes – black is likely to work well for you. Otherwise, we often wear it out of habit or for its supposed versatility. For some, it’s also a way to remain inconspicuous.

Of course, everyone decides for themselves what to wear.
But I’d like to offer some encouragement: especially in winter, step out of the all-black routine – especially if other colours suit you better. The weather is often dull and grey enough as it is. A splash of colour in your outfit can lift your mood – and perhaps even bring a spark of joy to those around you.