There’s a reason so many women wear all or mostly black. Audrey Hepburn, Louise Brooks, Norma Kamali, and Chanel, to name a few. Black always looks elegant, yet modern, and there are so many choices of styles and fabrics, you never get tired of black.

You are always finding new ways to wear black. An all black wardrobe lets you get away with more than any other color. Nothing is more slimming than an all black outfit. Your pieces from 10 years ago still work, layered with newer pieces. Black is appropriate for every event at any time of day. It’s hard to look under (or over) dressed in black. And if you want to feel and look confident, wear black. According to a study done in the U.K., a conclusive 56% of respondents in their survey favored black as a color of confidence.

The Basics for an All Black Wardrobe

THE LBD Every wardrobe needs a LBD – little black dress. Coco Chanel invented the LBD in 1926. Chanel wanted to create a dress that would be appropriate for any occasion and look different just by changing accessories. Of course, nothing looks better with a LBD than Chanel’s signature pearls.

Black Halo Jackie O. Drape Knee-Length Dress, $375

TAHARI Bi-Stretch Sheath Dress, $128

BASIC PANT: Buy a quality pair of basic black pants and they will last you for years. A straight leg is best and the most versatile. Look for a wool blend or high quality knit. Akris punto leggings (actually pants) will look
as good in 10 years as they do today.

 

Boss Stretch Wool Slim Leg Ankle Trousers, $255

THE JACKET: Dress it down with a pair of jeans, or dress it up. Pair with trousers or wear over your LBD. Nothing is more versatile than a good black jacket. Make sure it’s long enough to cover your rear and that the fit is impeccable.

BOSS Jabina Jacket, $595

T Tahari Jacket, $198

TEES & TURTLENECKS: Have a stack of tees and turtlenecks in black and other colors to add pop. Wear alone or layer under a jacket or sweater. No one makes a better tee than Vince, or for casual, Gap does a great basic. Buy good quality turtlenecks that won’t stretch out.

Vince Pima Cotton Tee, $95

Alice + Olivia Garrison Turtleneck Top, $165

HALOGEN Long Sleeve Turtleneck , $39

THE PUMP: They lengthen the leg and make the arch of the foot more defined, giving you a sexier look than flats. A good pair of comfortable black heels are indispensable for the all black wardrobe. Buy the best pair of black pumps you can afford. Take care of them and they will last for years.

Stuart Weitzman Curvia Pump, $385

COLE HAAN Kinslee Pump, $150