Color Series: Why Black Is Not For the Timid

When something is the new black, we understand that it is a new trend, a new staple. Yet the sophistication of black may well never fade: between black-tie affairs and the black robes of lawyers and judges, black indicates respectable status and power. It is sleek and stylish, yet holds an air of mystery: Johnny Cash was known as “the Man in Black,” generally performing in all black clothing. Coco Chanel is known for her “little black dress,” introduced first in 1926.

Black also holds more foreboding connotations. The black of nighttime and darkness can be ominous, and black cats are a bad sign for the superstitious (except in Japan and Great Britain, where black cats are considered to be good luck). Black is the Western color of mourning and black comedy attempts to comically lighten up tragedy. A black sheep is the disgraceful member of a respectable group.

Not always dismal though, the color black will always be considered classy and professional. Tuxedos and limousines, musicians in the orchestra pit dressed in black, these are all indicators of elegant refinement.

For brands, black can evoke seriousness, distinctiveness, boldness – and of course, sophistication. For example, booz&co, one of the top consulting firms in the world, uses an all black logo to connote the seriousness and professionalism with which they conduct their business. Whether B2B or B2C, companies that incorporate black into their brand identity are making a powerful statement.