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.

Why an All Black Wardrobe?

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. Not to mention, it saves time. When you wear all black you don’t have to worry about matching.

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.

How to Start Your All-Black Wardrobe

First, take stock of what you already have in your closet that’s black. Get rid of anything that looks worn or overly used. An all black look demands sleek and chic pieces, and nothing says the opposite like a black shirt that has a stretched neck or has been washed so many times it’s gray. Then find where the gaps in your closet are, and fill them in.

To get started everyone should have at least one of every item we list below, although it never hurts to have more options! And when purchasing, buy the highest quality you can afford. Look for quality fabrics, like wool, silk and 100% cotton. Because these items will never go out of style you can wear them for years and years to come. Think of anything you purchase for an all black wardrobe as an investment in yourself.

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.

>READ: THE LITTLE BLACK DRESS

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.

>READ: WHAT ARE TREGGINGS?

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.

TEES & TURTLENECKS

Have a stack of tees and turtlenecks in black and other color accessories to add pop. Wear alone or layer under a jacket or sweater. Buy good quality turtlenecks and tees that won’t stretch out.

READ: FASHION FINDS: TOP 10 TURTLENECKS UNDER $100

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.

COMFORTABLE SHOES

If the occasion doesn’t call for a heel or you just don’t wear them anymore, a polished flat black shoe can still elevate any outfit. Pointed toe-flats will always be in style. Or try loafers for something a little more professional.

THE WRAP

This is a versatile piece that can take you from a sophisticated wedding guest to a cozy traveler. We recommend getting two, one for warmer weather in linen or cotton. And another for the winter months.

THE BELT

Accessories can add a pop of color to an all black wardrobe. But there are some staples you should still get in black, like a good belt. Avoid belts that are too trendy and opt for classic shapes instead.

>READ: 7 INVESTMENT CLOTHING PIECES TO BUILD A CORE WARDROBE

>READ: CLEVER CAPSULE WARDROBE: STYLISH TRAVEL CLOTHES FOR WOMEN OVER 50