Is Purple the New "Black?"

Jamie Lynn Sigler of Soprano's fame predicts a lot of purple for fall.

It's rich. It's regal. It's dark without being dreary. And it's perfect for fall and winter weddings.

Purple Facts

Since the days when only the rich could afford it and only the Roman upper echelon were permitted to wear it, the color purple has been associated with affluence, supremacy, dominance and magnificent opulence.

Amethyst, the purple gemstone, is associated with spirituality, mystery and pacification. It protects its wearers from getting too intoxicated with alcohol.

Also worn to make the wearer gentle and amiable, amethyst powers include: dreams, healing, peace, love, spiritual upliftment, courage, happiness and protection against thieves.

And unlike black, the many shades of purple offer the bridesmaid and best dressed guests a vibrant palette - from inky deep Parma violet, warmer purples through mauve to tonally related puce and magenta (Tyrian purple.)

Happily, both silver and gold look good against purple and it seems to suit blonds, redheads and raven tressed women alike.

So before you snag that "little black dress" this fall, have a look at the color purple.