This post is part 2 of a two-part series where I share my personal insights from wearing black for the entire month of November. If you haven’t read Part 1 yet, be sure to check it out, where I dive into my initial experiences and the challenges I faced. In this second part, I’ll be sharing the lessons I learned, the unexpected discoveries, and my final reflections on how black impacted me throughout November.
Challenges & Experiments
- Challenges with Authenticity:
There was a moment that really stood out: during a choir rehearsal, I felt completely out of place wearing all black, paired with black nails. I had a sense that I was pretending to be someone I’m not. It wasn’t so much that I felt others would judge me, but I felt disconnected from myself. The black clothes, the black nails, it felt inauthentic and almost like I was “cheating” the people around me. This was a big revelation to me. I realised that while color can shape how we are perceived, it also shapes how we feel about ourselves.
- Color Science – Color Light Therapy vs. Color Therapy:
I spent some time thinking about why light therapy has scientific backing while general color therapy doesn’t. I wondered why we can measure the frequency of light but not the frequency of a color reflected by objects. Why is one scientifically validated and the other not? I even wrote letters to two physicists asking for an explanation, but I haven’t received a response yet. I’m genuinely curious, and I’ll keep you posted on any developments. - Tech Meets Color (Day 12):
On the twelfth day, I got a smart ring to track various health parameters – heart rate, sleep quality, stress levels, and more. Over time, I hope to compare data from different color months to see if color truly impacts my well-being. It’s too soon to draw any conclusions, but I’m excited about the potential insights.
Creative Explorations & Personal Growth
- Personifying Colors (Day 18):
One of my favorite ideas emerged this month: imagining each color as a person. For black, I created “Mademoiselle Noir” – a chic, elegant figure who embodies the essence of black. I can’t wait to do this for every color each month. I envision having a whole cast of “color personalities,” each offering their own wisdom and perspective. I imagine conversing with them, asking for advice, tapping into their unique energy. It’s like having a panel of mentors, each representing a hue’s concentrated qualities.
- Art Projects & Time Management:
I had the idea to create a black collage this month, to visually represent what black means to me. Unfortunately, time slipped away. I realized that I need to plan better to fit these artistic explorations into my schedule. This project is still new, and I’m learning to organize myself. Step by step ( ooh, baby, gonna get to you, girl…- who recognised this song? ), I’ll improve and make space for these fun, creative tasks. - Planning for the Future (Capsule Wardrobe):
At one point, I listed all the clothes I wore in a week, aiming to create a capsule wardrobe strategy for future months. That way, I’ll know exactly what I need – no overbuying. Thinking also about borrowing or renting pieces for next colors. - Immersing in Color Theory & Education:
I read extensively about black in my collection of color books. There’s so much knowledge out there, and I keep learning. I’m considering posting a list of my favorite color books on my blog—maybe even starting a color book club. Wouldn’t it be great to gather fellow color enthusiasts worldwide, reading and discussing color-related literature together? Let me know your thoughts! - Professional Development in Color Analysis:
I’ve been working diligently on my Color Analysis assignments, and my teacher says I’m doing very well. I’m proud of myself! By the way, I am a “soft autumn.” That explains why black felt so off for me – my natural coloring and features harmonize with softer, warmer tones. It’s always enlightening to confirm these insights. Do you know your season? - Color as Fulfillment:
By the middle of the month, I realized how fulfilling it was to immerse myself in color every single day. Thinking about it, studying it, writing about it – it gave me a deep sense of purpose. Even if the color wasn’t flattering, focusing on color as a concept, as a tool, and as a form of expression filled my days with meaning. - Black Adventure:
For my black month adventure, I tried a Dinner in the Dark at Schloss Nymphenburg. Picture a totally dark room, no clue what’s on your plate, and turning your sense of taste into a guessing game. It was hilarious, a bit tricky, very delicious, and definitely something I’d do again! If you want to know more, you can read all about it here!
Reflecting on this month, I’ve learned that black, while powerful and elegant, doesn’t align with my natural features or personal energy. It’s a color I respect and will continue to wear occasionally, but not one I’ll rely on for joy or vibrancy in my daily life. I learned that while color influences mood and perception, our internal drive and happiness are even more powerful forces. Black could dampen my surface, but not my spirit. This project isn’t just about wearing a color for a month – it’s about exploring how color shapes us.
As I step into December – embracing Red, perhaps the perfect antidote to blacks introspective weight – I’m eager to experience how another strong hue interacts with my energy and emotions. Will red invigorate me, embolden me, or overwhelm me?
If you’re curious, you can follow my “Color Chronicles” on Instagram for highlights and daily impressions. This journey is still in its early stages, and I have so much more to learn, create, and share. Thank you for following along on my „Black Month“ journey. Stay tuned for more insights as I continue to explore the world of color and its impact on my life. I hope my experiences resonate with you and inspire you to think about your relationship with color, too!
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