Background

Some of my readers asked about the physics of the color reflection that was visible in my post on why you need a scarf collection.

 

reflection on a leather dress
Leather sheath with polka dot tights, Hermes collier de chien bangle, Tissot watch, Pour la Victoire open-toe booties, baroque pearl necklace (all own) and Akoya pearl necklace c/o The Pearl Source (inner necklace)

 

red blazer with scarf
Diffuse reflection of a silk scarf on GNW Luxe cashmere wool sweater. See text for the physical explanation

 

 

The physics behind it

Obviously, light reflects off of the smooth surface of a mirror. Many objects that are not smooth on their own scale nevertheless can reflect light at the small surfaces of their microscopic scale.

When the light reflection is off of smooth surfaces like calm water, black ice, or a mirror in the fitting room, the light is reflected all in the same direction. This type of reflection is called specular reflection.

In the case of reflection off of rough surfaces, the physical law incoming angle equals outgoing angle still applies. However, on the small scale the reflecting surfaces point in all directions. Consequently, the reflecting beams seem to go in all direction. This reflection off of rough surfaces like the sweater or a road is called diffuse reflection.

The fiber of the wool and cashmere just has very small smooth reflecting surfaces that under the right light conditions reflect the scarf like the calm water of a lake does reflect the adjacent landscape. Thus, a sweater can reflect a scarf.

You can find other posts on the physics of clothing understanding the blue-black and white-gold dress and why clothes release sparks.

 

mat and shine contrast in monochromatic looks
Zoom-in on the polka dot tights and open-toe booties

 

 

OOTD

The OOTD presented here works with a monochromatic color palette and creates interest with different structure, pattern and the contrast of mat and shine. A pop of red gives the outfit a spring friendly vibe despite of the still winter landscape.

What are your tricks to keep a monochromatic outfit interesting and out of boredom land?

 

over 50 years old influencer in winter look with light reflections
LeatherCoatsEtc pea-coat with wool beret, gloves, polka dot tights, structured bag and Pour la Victoire lace-up open-toe booties

 

 

Photos: G. Kramm

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