by Meg McElwee of www.sewliberated.com (edited for space)
I’ve been thinking a lot about color lately. Which is almost not worth stating because I am often thinking about color. But I’ve been thinking about how I wear color, how I see color, how color shows up, or doesn’t in the world. The redbud trees are blooming, and their vibrant flowers are so welcome after the faded tones of winter. Color is everywhere if you look for it.
But some studies have shown that in what we create, in man made things, color is disappearing. From cars to household objects to clothes, things are less colorful and more monochrome than ever. And even though I love neutrals and have knit more than one gray sweater, this news makes me want to be much more intentional about how I wear and use color in my day to day life.
Changes in the color of objects over time, courtesy of the Science Museum Group
This video, with examples of a 60/30/10 use color really inspired me. This distribution of color reminded me of one of my go-to concepts when getting dressed, the rule of thirds. The rule of thirds encourages you to break up a silhouette into 3 sections, rather than in half at the middle of the body, to create interest and balance in an outfit. I experimented with both of these ideas while shopping my closet for some spring outfits. Here are a few of my favorites: |
| This dress (out next month on Sew Liberated,) with its full sleeves and waist ties gathering just under the bust-line, creates a 1/3 : 2/3 silhouette. This is more than 3 colors but I just had to include it. | A high-waisted pant is a great way to divide the body at a 1/3 : 2/3 ratio, and the cardigan creates more interest with texture, and by hitting at the hip to creates the inverse, with a 2/3 : 1/3 ratio. |
The concepts don’t have to apply perfectly. And you will notice I do have some neutrals and soft tones in these outfits. Part of the fun of getting dressed is that there are no rules. The “rule” of thirds is just a tool, as is the 60/30/10 ratio. Use them when and where you see fit.
Color should be fun, it should be something that reminds us we are not just on this earth, but we are a part of it. Nature is colorful. I want my world to be colorful too. And I want to choose colors based on what I love, not on what a brand has told me is trending this season.
When I find myself admiring someone’s style it is almost never because they are following a trend, it is because they are being themselves and standing out in the sea of sameness that social media encourages. That is the kind of personal style I aspire towards. One that is timeless, because it is mine.
My daughter and I recently talked about the disappearance of color in clothing children wear. When I pick up my middle schooler, I’m struck by the preponderance of black and gray as the kids exit the building. I see the same trend among elementary children. I can’t help but wonder if this phenomenon is a reflection of societal stress in our world today. Definitely worth pondering.
I believe color is disappearing due to the cost. It is cheaper to make something in one or two neutral colors than to make five or six in a variety of colors. Stores don’t have to stock as many different colors and have unsold products because someone didn’t like the color.
I heartily agree that we have lost color in our clothing and surroundings. I look at the washed-out, faded and dark colors I see in the department stores and it reminds me of photos of the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl. So depressing! It contributes to boring conformity and lack of beauty in our lives. It creates a downward spiral when we need uplifting. I hope the increasing interest in sewing results in more colorful, happy wardrobes…..and lives.
Those who know me know I love color and it is reflected in my clothes as well as my home. Colors make me feel happy, calm and excited. As an art major, interior designer and graphic artist color has always been in my life. Tan is a color that makes me feel blah, sleepy and not have any energy.
So if you need some inspiration on color give me a call – we can have some fun with color -so many things to sew and create.