The color palettes associated with Lewis Carroll’s classic stories, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking-Glass, typically evoke a sense of whimsy and surrealism. These palettes often feature vibrant, contrasting hues, such as bright blues, greens, reds, and yellows, alongside softer pastels like lavender and pale pink. Specific examples include Alice’s iconic blue dress, the Queen of Hearts’ red and black attire, and the Cheshire Cat’s pink stripes.
This vibrant and sometimes clashing use of color contributes significantly to the dreamlike atmosphere of Wonderland. The unexpected juxtapositions mirror the nonsensical logic and unpredictable nature of the narratives. Historically, the illustrations accompanying various editions of the books have influenced the perceived color schemes. Early illustrations, such as those by John Tenniel, leaned towards a more muted palette, while later interpretations often embraced bolder, more saturated colors, reflecting evolving artistic trends and interpretations of the stories.