Golden Globes: 5 reasons black resonates as a colour of protest

As more than 300 celebrities streamed down the red carpet, it was certain this year’s Golden Globes were going to mark a departure from previous years. The carpet was only red in name. These awards will likely go down in Hollywood history as the night where the #MeToo protest movement against sexual violence, demanded -and received- global attention.  #WhyIWearBlack, #TimesUp and #MeToo trended more than half a million times since Sunday night’s 75th Annual Golden Globes ceremony. Arraigned in somber shades of black, a sea of actresses (some accompanied by activists) conferred visibility on sexual abuse survivor-hood, and conveyed indignation at a status-quo that grants abusers near impunity. Inspired by this colour-coordinated display of solidarity, we, at Daraz Life, thought a quick wardrobe visit in search of similarly striking blacks, was in order.

This is a colour without time for trifles & half-measures. Black reflects resolve; is of one mind, not two. Nowhere was this more palpable than at Sunday’s Globes red carpet and ceremony.

What is it about this simultaneously understated and evocative colour that harnesses feelings of resistance and solidarity? For one, it’s 1) ceremonial. No-nonsense, no-frills, black has long been considered a vector of power and attitude. There’s good reason the colour has become shorthand for pomp & formality itself: black-tie events. 2) As demonstrated by the leading ladies at Globes, when worn in bold, headlining tones, its solidity leads from the front and grabs attention, pulling focus from lesser diversions. 3) Black is uncompromising and unequivocal: You know black when you see it; so do onlookers. Matte or shiny, latex or leather, cotton or lawn, let there be no doubt: black is always, indisputably, black. Its 4) uniformity is empowering.Taking a bold stand for or against something in a colour with as much resolve as this only makes sense. It’s a 5) stand-alone statement colour. While it can carry the odd touch of embellishment here and there, black is one of the most independent colours on the spectrum. All-black outfits don’t demand additional accenting. Black says what it came to say; no more, no less. 

Disclaimer: Wearing black in symbolic protest against injustice requires little work. Black is a statement. Activism is much more than that. We’re putting this article out as a tip of our hat to the women at the Globes- and elsewhere- who refuse to silence themselves and be silenced; who put themselves on the front-lines of the fight against sexism and discrimination. While we’re all free to wear protest on our sleeves, true activism must be lived on a daily, behind-the-scenes basis. We are cognizant of the reality that protest isn’t a fad or trend. Activism is never for sale: at its most demanding, it’s a way of standing inside your truth, and braving the consequences (however dire) that may ensue. No harm if you can do that, and look mighty fine along the way.