Black is Slack

Are you overwhelmed by a growing number of Black coordinates as you greet your wardrobe each day? Garments of black seems to have become the cornerstone of many a closet over time; maybe because it reflects strength and solidarity, or maybe many of us find it hard to think outside of that black square that we live in? What I would like to know - is this morbid hue having repercussions on our daily lives?

According to many apparel innovators BLACK is traditionally an 'elitist colour for the fashion savvy'. That may be so, but if the fashion industry has ever been in the need of a complete overhaul, must we look further than the colour that spells out doom and gloom? The benefits of Black are universally recognised: after all, it is slimming, goes with anything and gives us a building block for many outfits. But does it not remind thee of an endless pit descending into a dreary underworld, or a night with no stars?

Whatever it may be, there's nothing like an injection of colour to spice up your life, and believe it or not, adorning ourselves in vibrant shades does seem to have an impact on our moods. Colour seems to give us that extra lift that is often welcomed in the colder months, and can in fact be a positive energy source. Just as the world becomes a more inspiring place on a sunny day, dressing in alternatives to black can offer a renewed outlook on the world. Colour, like the sun, is full of optimism, light and reflection.

Green symbolizes nature and new growth, and, as one of the most energizing colours, increases our sense of well being when we wear it.

Orange also signifies high energy and denotes heat, fire and the harvest.

Yellow is associated with spontaneity, vivacity, youth and spark.

Red represents courage, valour and passion.

Blue in a light shade reflects water, sky and heaven. Medium blue; friendship and sincerity. Royal and electric blue for strength and vibrancy.

Purple personifies power, royalty and richness

Violet is full of emotion, and can have a draining effect under circumstances.

Remember colour is your friend - to be played with, laughed at and enjoyed. It is a fashion concept that will withstand the test of time, and one that the fashion world will constantly reinvent.

You may attract more attention to yourself if you start dressing like a human rainbow, so an edge of confidence would be the best accessory. May it reflect who you are at that critical moment when you choose your outfit for the day. Hmm...It's just dawned on me why black is so popular - how often do you feel like a box of birds when dressing for work at 7am on a winter's morning..........?

- Louise Buckingham