Whoa! I didn't mean to stir up a ruckus! :eek
I agree that color perception is objective, and that variances in lighting, camera angles, retinal cones in a persons eye, etc. that can affect any given image seen. Having been a costumer for over 25 years (non-professional--mostly for myself/family/friends), I'm all too aware of the differences of opinion that can arise when interpreting a certain piece of costume.
In the case of Snape, I
personally see a blue-black wool suiting jacket, and black academic robes (of a lighter wool derivative)....the key for me being that they are
both black, only different textures and hues (a revision, I know, of my earlier stance---but this thread has made me go back and restudy the images more closely). If one studies the various promo images, dvd viewings and captures (rickrickrick: try VLV media player at
http://www.videolan.org/vlc/...it's free, and has screen-capture capabilities), and myriad other online sources, the colors of the 2 articles
appear to be different to the layman's naked eye, irregardless of the true textures or hues. I am choosing to replicate that look, only for the fact that it's the most recognizable to the general public.
It's entirely probable that there were several screen-used hero and stunt versions of the costume, not to mention a traveling exhibit example (case-in-point: The Joker costume from
The Dark Knight), and the lighting of different scenes and film types affect the final visual output, as shown in the 9-button arm shot I posted---it almost looks to be navy blue.
In short...I think we are all saying the same thing!
Back to the costume....here's a pic I got from somewhere (I don't remember), that shows a small-scale Snape reproduction...you can see the robe arm treatment pretty good here....
And the pants: Does anyone have a suggestion for what period pattern to use?
They look to be flat-front (no pleats), high-waisted with flared legs and are made of wool, like the jacket....that's all I can say, as there isn't much in the way of reference materials around...and I'm also curious if Snape wears braces/suspenders....
Oh, and PadawanLearner...you need to take another shot at this costume....the more, the merrier!
Rob