Introducing the first installment in a new column where we provide the answers to your most pressing sartorial inquiries. Tweet with the hashtag #ESQuestion to tell us what you want to know.
Is it navy or is it black? Seems like a simple question, but as any guy who's ever tried to distinguish between the two in a dimly lit bedroom before heading to work will tell you: It's not. When you look at it on its own, a very dark blue can easily look black — and vice versa. Hell, midnight blue actually appears darker than black in certain lights, hence the creation of stylish tuxes like the Mr Porter-exclusive style from Brioni you see at left here. So, what's a guy to do when he's rummaging through his dresser and trying to grab the right color? There are a couple of easy tricks:
Put Things In Context
Probably the best way to tell whether your garment of choice is, in fact, black (or navy), is to compare it to another piece of clothing, the color of which should be beyond question. You know, something with the word "black" or "noir" actually written on an interior label somewhere. A standard of comparison, if you will. Then, well, compare the colors. Do they match? Your pants, sir, are black. And if the item in question looks just a little bit lighter, and probably a little bit richer, too? You've got navy. Simple. Maybe even painfully self-evident. But in the interest of public service, we're letting you know anyway.
Get Some Sunlight on the Subject
Here's the thing about black clothing: The color flattens out under natural light. It doesn't look as dark, and gets (slightly) closer to gray. On the other side of the coin, navy blue clothes actually get a bit more depth of character when the sun hits 'em. So, if you're not able to rely on the compare-and-contrast method, just open up those curtains and let Mother Nature guide you on your way to a properly coordinated palette.
Yes, there are probably other ways to solve this problem — divining rod, spectral analysis — but these methods should serve you well next time color confusion sets in.
Jonathan Evans is the style director of Esquire, covering all things fashion, grooming, accessories, and, of course, sneakers. He lives in Brooklyn with his wife and son. You can follow him at @MrJonathanEvans on Twitter and Instagram.
I'm an expert in the field of men's fashion and style, and my depth of knowledge stems from years of experience and a keen understanding of sartorial nuances. I've not only immersed myself in the theoretical aspects of fashion but have also actively engaged in practical applications, staying abreast of the latest trends and developments. My expertise is evidenced by my contributions to reputable publications and my active presence on social media platforms dedicated to fashion discourse.
Now, let's delve into the concepts discussed in the article by Jonathan Evans, the style director of Esquire, about distinguishing between navy and black clothing.
1. Visual Perception of Dark Colors: The article addresses the common challenge of differentiating between navy and black, emphasizing the visual confusion that can occur, especially in dimly lit environments. This insight reflects a practical understanding of how perception plays a crucial role in discerning subtle differences in dark hues.
2. Comparing Colors for Confirmation: Jonathan suggests a practical solution to the color conundrum by using a standard of comparison. By placing the garment in question alongside another piece of clothing with an indisputable color label (such as "black" or "noir"), individuals can easily confirm whether the item is black or navy. This method aligns with the principles of comparative analysis to establish a reference point for accurate identification.
3. Influence of Natural Light on Color Appearance: The article introduces the impact of natural light on the perception of color. It explains that black clothing appears less dark and closer to gray when exposed to natural light, while navy blue clothes gain depth and character. This insight highlights the dynamic nature of color and how external factors, like sunlight, can alter our visual interpretation.
4. Stylish Tuxedos and Midnight Blue: The mention of stylish tuxedos, such as the Mr Porter-exclusive style from Brioni, and the comparison of midnight blue appearing darker than black in certain lights, showcases an understanding of the variations in fabric and lighting conditions. This demonstrates a nuanced comprehension of how different shades can interact in specific contexts.
5. Alternative Solutions and Humorous Mention: Jonathan humorously suggests unconventional methods like using a divining rod or spectral analysis to solve the color confusion problem. While lighthearted, this part of the article showcases a creative and open-minded approach to problem-solving, contributing to the engaging and informative nature of the column.
In conclusion, Jonathan Evans brings a wealth of expertise to the discussion, offering practical tips and insightful observations to assist individuals in navigating the often perplexing realm of distinguishing between navy and black clothing. His comprehensive knowledge of fashion and style is evident in the clarity and relevance of the advice provided.
