How many shades of black there are in clothing
Short answer: There is no fixed count, but black is not simply black: different fabrics and dye baths give shades from deep black to bluish and greyish. The shade depends on fibres, dye and how often the clothes are washed.
Black is not always the same
If you lay two black jumpers side by side, you can often see a difference. One may look bluish, the other more brownish or greyish. That is because the fabric takes up dye differently and the dye bath may have small variations. There is no official number of shades, so it is more a matter of what the eye sees. It is especially visible in daylight, where black can shift in tone.
The fabric affects the shade
Different fibres take up dye in their own way. Cotton, viscose and synthetic fabrics can all be dyed black, but they do not look the same. The surface matters too: a smooth surface reflects more light and can look deeper, while a rougher or airier surface can look softer and more matt. That means two black items do not always match, even though the colour is black.
Washing and wear change black
Black clothes can fade over time, especially if they are washed at a high temperature or dried in sunlight. Wash them inside out at 30 to 40 degrees with detergent for darks, and dry them out of direct sun. That way the colour lasts longer. Wear can also make the surface lighter, especially at seams and places with friction. It depends on the fabric, the washing and the use, and there is no fixed point at which black starts to turn grey.
Choose black items that should go together
If several black items are to be worn together, it is a good idea to try them together in daylight. If you are unsure, choose clothes in the same fabric or from the same range, because then the difference is often smaller. If you want black for sheets, you can also see the shade when you lay it on the mattress. See bamboo envelope sheets. A set that is exactly the same often looks the most uniform.
Black socks and other small items
Black socks are a good example of how shades can become obvious. If a pair that has turned slightly grey lies next to a new pair, it soon looks like two different colours. See bamboo socks for women. It can help to buy new pairs in several rounds instead of all at once. A wide choice can be found under all bamboo socks for women.
Keep black black
If you want black clothes to keep their colour, wash them less often and at a low temperature. Do not use bleach, and avoid drying in direct sun or heat. Air the clothes between wears instead of washing. Clothes that have faded can sometimes regain depth with a special colour wash, but check the care label first. It depends on the fabric. Care in good time gives a more even result.
Frequently asked questions
Is all black clothing the same
No. Fabric, dye bath and surface give differences, and black can look bluish, brownish or greyish.
Why does black clothing turn grey
Washing, heat, sunlight and wear can make the colour fade. Wash inside out at a low temperature and dry out of direct sun.
How do I get black clothes to match
Try them together in daylight, and choose clothes in the same fabric or from the same range if you can.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
