When it comes to conversations around fashion and style and what looks nice or what is on trend, the banter tends to be rather mild and friendly.  There is, however, a fashion topic that seems to elicit a multitude of lively discussion and strong opinion and that is around wearing all black.

Now I'm not talking about the occasional all black outfit for a special occasion or an event.  I'm talking about wearing black as the go-to.  I'm talking about your wardrobe consisting predominantly of black everything and that being the primary color that you purchase to wear.

You may be wondering what are some of the thoughts that I have heard about wearing all black? Well, for some, it can signify mourning or darkness.  For others it’s a look, a uniform, a well defined aesthetic.  For others it can be seen as a cop out of sorts - maybe because there is nothing to wear or that there is a lack of creativity to put together something more creative or colorful.  Many will find that all black makes getting dressed easier.  And yet for others, wearing all black or having an all black wardrobe intentionally creates a look that represents power, sophistication and style.  

With that being said, if you fall into the latter category of frequently wearing all black, then you know how this monochromatic look not only creates a beautiful and powerful aesthetic but also actually allows you to flex your creativity and gives attention to detail in ways that a more colorful palette may sometimes not allow.

If you already wear all black but need a refresher on how to use various elements to elevate your look or you are considering wearing more black, continue reading for tips and techniques to make this style aesthetic your own.

Focus On Fabric And Texture.  Look for varying textures of fabrics to bring visual interest to an all black outfit.  Mixing textures and fabrics will not only add dimension but bring a high end elevated look to what can otherwise come across as boring.  Consider pairing the following in all black:

• Cashmere and Cotton

• Cotton and Corduroy

• Sequins and Denim

• Denim and Silk

• Silk and Leather

Also keep in mind that varying textures and fabrics can camouflage varying shades of black.

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Consider The Details.  This builds on the previous concept of fabric and texture.  When you are shopping and getting dressed, consider the small details which can make a big difference in the visual interest of your outfit. Look for details such as stitching, fringe, covered buttons/zippers, and hardware such as link chains, grommets and studs.  Look for other interesting details such as hems, burnout or brocade patterns, puffy or drop shoulders and cut outs. You can even incorporate screen print/band tees and sheer/mesh fabrics to make the outfit more interesting and to give it some edge.

Add Accessories.  A personal favorite, adding on bold accessories is next level dressing.  Look for gold and silver hardware details in your purses, shoes, and jackets.  Accessory details can come in a range of colors including gold or silver and can create a high impact look.  Incorporating jewelry can be an easy and affordable way to level up one’s look.  This includes but is not limited to earrings, bracelets, belts, brooches, epaulets and even tights/hosiery and socks.  Hair accessories like headbands or a bold/funky pair of glasses is also to be considered.  How big or small or even how many accessories you wear depends on your personal taste and aesthetic as well as the occasion and other factors such as a school or work dress code.

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Add Varying Pops Of Color.  These pops of colors can come from shoes and purses as well as outerwear such as coats, vests, blazers and hats.  Remember that beautiful tote bag you have been saving for the right outfit or the right occasion?  Here is your chance to allow an all black outfit to serve as the backdrop for bold color shoes and purses.  When incorporating a shoe and a purse combo with an all black outfit, tone on tone or analogous colors are good options.  So instead of a red shoe and red purse which looks nice, think of pairing the following: 

• A red purse and an orange shoe.  

• A red belt and a pink or magenta tote bag and shoe.  

For even more visual interest, incorporate accessories in complementary colors:

• Red and Green 

• Yellow and Lavender/Purple

• Orange and Blue

Wear The Proper Undergarments.  While you should always wear proper fitting garments, you definitely want to make sure you have on the right undergarments because all black outfits are not always as forgiving as one might think.  The right undergarments will give you shape as well as hold and support you in the right places.  This ties into investing as much as you can into the pieces you purchase to ensure quality and fit.  

Mix Silhouettes And Proportions.  As with any outfit you want to ensure that the silhouette of your clothing complements your stature.  Wearing all black can sometimes make you look shapeless so incorporating things like belts to cinch the waist, an oversized sweater with a pair of slim fitting pants or a pencil skirt or even a fitted blazer with baggy pants can create visual interest, shape and balance with your wardrobe.

Put Some Makeup On.  Before you go and overhaul your entire makeup stash, consider some simple changes or upgrades to your beauty routine.  Because wearing all black can sometimes make you look washed out, evening out the complexion with concealer and tinted moisturizer can make a difference.  Even something as simple as a bold colored lip can pull an all black outfit together.

At the end of the day, when it comes to getting dressed, it is important to feel good in your clothes. This goes beyond what color your clothes are.  You must also consider how your clothes fit and how well your garments are constructed to ensure durability and longevity.  This is most important whether your wardrobe is all black or not.

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Want more information on industry researched and professionally  experienced  resources,  tips, tricks and  inspiration, read my other blog beautygrind.com