Tastes and colors are not up for debate, so let us begin with a clarification that tolerates neither debate nor controversy: Purple is a difficult color. Not an impossible one, not one to be strictly banned, and certainly not one devoid of charm, but undeniably a difficult one. Which is far worse. Whether fueled by discounted end-of-line cashmere from a Japanese brand or by a photo taken during a Vatican ceremony showing a group of bishops gathered around the pope, the temptation of purple returns regularly. It can even lead to a visit to a store, followed by an encounter with a cashier who will inevitably comment, "Ah, so you're taking it in purple – I bought it in blue myself." Often, it's the next day, when it's already too late, while getting dressed, that the remark will make perfect sense.
Indeed, while some clothing magicians suggest that placing purple on the color spectrum, right at the intersection between warm and cool colors, makes it a versatile and easy-to-match option, others know it is precisely the opposite. At the crossroads of all colors, and in competition with each of them, purple is never – regardless of intention and context – the best option. Blue is much more accommodating for putting together an outfit. Red is far more effective in energizing it. Pink is much more subtle to accessorize it.
Practically speaking, wearing purple must be a deliberate style choice. It is used to stand out in the office or to create an image, like Prince at the height of his glory. Or even to entertain, as the Beckhams did at their wedding in 1999. (We leave it to you to look up the footage but take no responsibility for any retina damage.)
So, the next time you read or hear that this time, for sure, it's finally "the season of purple," take a deep breath. Let the sudden desire to consume and accumulate pass, and then ask yourself the right question: Will you be able to wear that purple with elegance – and therefore with nonchalance and detachment – without the slightest doubt that blue or red might have worked better? Chances are, the answer is as easy to find as purple is difficult to wear.
Translation of an original article published in French on lemonde.fr; the publisher may only be liable for the French version.