Ever find yourself in a bit of a disagreeable moment? The color puce feels your pain. Today we’re going to explore this very misunderstood color.
Few may remember or even know what the color puce really is. It’s not a color many gravitate towards, It’s not a recognized Crayola color. Different countries can’t even agree about it. as they believe the color to be different shades.
“In the United States, the color puce is viewed as brownish-purple. In the UK, the color is viewed as purple brown or a dark red. In France, where it was invented, puce is described as a rather dark reddish brown.”
Oxford Dictionary defines puce as being of late 18th century French origins literally of flea colour. Fleas you ask? Yes. Apparently seeing this color around your home is not exactly desired as its also the same name as the commonly referred to bed bug or flea per the French-English Dictionary.
Pop culture references have paid homage to this color in attempts to make light of its unfortunate alter egos.
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When brainstorming for colors for magical lollipop candy in the 1985 movie “Santa Claus” featuring Brit Dudley Moore, the chosen color was puce.
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Also back in the 80s “Different Strokes referenced the color in their episode "The Model." a commentator for a fashion show says that an outfit being modeled is available in blue, green, and puce. Arnold says, "What's puce?" and Mr. Drummond responds, "Expensive purple."
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In the animated comedy television series The Rocky and Bullwinkle Show (1959–1964), Bullwinkle refers to his high school's colors as pomegranate and puce.
Are you bold enough to stand up to this misunderstood “expensive purple?” Let us help you give it the respect it debatably deserves.
