Looking better in darker colored clothing is a common experience that many people can relate to. There are several reasons why darker shades tend to be more flattering for most people. Understanding the science behind why dark clothes are more slimming and stylish can help you dress your best.
Darker colors recede visually
One of the main reasons we tend to look better in dark colored clothing is because darker shades recede visually and light colors stand out. This effect happens because of how our eyes perceive depth and dimension. Darker shades mimic shadows and depths, causing the eye to perceive those areas as receding backwards. On the other hand, lighter colors jump out visually, accentuating those areas.
This is why wearing darker colors on the bottom half of your body, like dark denim jeans or black pants, can create the illusion of longer legs. The dark colors recede, causing the bottom half of your body to appear slimmer and less accentuated. Wearing lighter colors on bottom will highlight those areas, making them stand out more.
Similarly, darker colors on top create the illusion of a slimmer upper body because they downplay curves and edges. Lighter shades highlight the chest, arms, and midsection because those areas visually jump out.
Darker colors are slimming
In addition to visually receeding, darker colors are also slimming because they downplay silhouette outlines. The edges and shape of your figure are less sharp and defined in a darker shade. Light colors outline the contours of your body, highlighting shape and form.
Darker fabrics and tones also mask bulges and bumps, absorbing more light than paler shades. This helps smooth the appearance of lumps, rolls, and protrusions for a trimmer look. On the other hand, light colors emphasize anything underneath them, calling attention to bulges or a thick waistline.
| Darker colors | Lighter colors |
|---|---|
| Visually recede | Stand out visually |
| Disguise figure outlines | Define silhouette shape |
| Hide bumps and bulges | Draw attention to lumps and curves |
| Create depth | Appear closer and flatter |
Darker shades give an air of mystery
There is also a psychological component as to why dark clothing is more flattering. Darker shades evoke a sense of sophistication and mystery. Black, darker blues, deep greens, rich browns and charcoal gray all have an air of drama and allure.
Light washed out colors, on the other hand, read as more casual, laidback and youthful. While lighter tones have their place, they simply don’t give the sophisticated mysterious vibe of deeper more complex colors. Darker colors lend visual interest and depth which inherently makes them more appealing.
Furthermore, studies show that people who wear darker clothes are perceived as more intelligent, credible and powerful than those who wear lighter colors. This likely ties back to the sense of authority and mystery that darker tones convey.
The science behind why black is thinning
Now that we’ve established why darker colors are more flattering in general, let’s look specifically at why black is one of the most slimming colors. There are a few scientific reasons why black is so thinning:
- Black absorbs the most light. It absorts all the visual wavelengths in the color spectrum, masking outlines and details.
- Black immediately makes any other color next to it pop since it’s a neutral. This draws attention away from the black shape or garment.
- When different shades are positioned next to each other, our eyes perceive depth and dimension between them. Black creates the most contrast, meaning adjacent colors will stand out rather than blending together.
- Black is associated with weight loss and restriction while white is associated with purity and openness. The underlying meaning we subconsciously attach to it affects our perception.
Let’s look at another example. Say you’re wearing black pants with a colorful patterned top. The eye will naturally be drawn to the bright patterns and colors on top. The solid black pants almost serve as a shadow, receding into the background.
Tips for wearing black clothes to look slimmer
Here are some tips to keep in mind when wearing black for a slimming effect:
- Wear black on bottom paired with lighter colors on top. Black pants with a bright shirt is a classic slimming look.
- Try black dresses or tops with visual detailing at top like embellishments or prints. Let black smooth and slenderize your bottom half.
- Select black garments in lightweight fabrics with some drape like jersey. They’ll skim over lumps and bumps more easily.
- Avoid bulky, voluminous or baggy black pieces. Go for well-fitting styles in drapey or stretchy fabrics.
- For casual looks, combine black jeans with other dark denim washes rather than harsh light denim. This creates a vertical lengthening effect.
How different colors can affect your appearance
Now that we’ve covered why black and other dark colors are so flattering, let’s examine how other shades on the color wheel can impact your look:
| Color | Effect on Appearance |
|---|---|
| Black | Slimming, sophisticated, stylish |
| White | Can make you look heavier and washed out |
| Navy | Flattering on most complexions, classic |
| Gray | Muted and subtle, blends well |
| Brown | Warming, down to earth |
| Red | Eye-catching, vibrant, can accentuate skin flaws |
| Orange | Fun and youthful |
| Yellow | Cheerful, can make skin look sallow |
| Green | Earthy, soothing, natural |
| Blue | Classic, versatile, calming |
| Pink | Feminine, soft, youthful |
| Purple | Regal, creative, quirky |
As you can see, the darker more muted tones like black, navy and gray tend to be the most universally flattering. Very bright shades like yellow, orange and neon colors are better as accents. Light pastels can work but beware washy pale shades that might drain your complexion.
How to dress for your skin’s undertone
One last consideration when choosing colors is your natural skin undertone. The pigmentation underneath your skin can be:
- Warm – leans yellow, peach or golden
- Cool – leans pink, red or bluish
- Neutral – neither warm nor cool
Here are some tips for choosing colors based on your undertone:
| Undertone | Most Flattering Colors | Colors to Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Warm | Orange, yellow, peach, cream | Cool blues, pinks, purples |
| Cool | Magenta, teal, emerald green, sky blue | Orange, yellow, brown |
| Neutral | Most shades will work if properly saturated | Overly muted or overly bright shades |
Stick to dark jewel tones, rich earth tones and black for a foolproof slimming look on most skin tones. Be aware of undertones when trying brighter shades. With the right colors you can highlight your best assets and feel confident you look your best.
Conclusion
Darker clothing flatters most people’s figures by appearing slimming and creating the illusion of longer leaner lines. Rich deeper shades also give off an air of sophistication and confidence. Colors have a psychological impact on how we perceive people. Darker more complex colors lend visual interest and depth for an appealing look.
Understanding these principles allows you to use color and garment silhouettes strategically when getting dressed. Black, navy, charcoal and other dark neutrals are safe versatile options. Accentuate with pops of color as desired. Stay mindful of how lighter and brighter shades can call attention to certain areas. Knowing what works for your body type and skin tone helps you always look and feel your best.