It was middle school in the early 80’s when I fell head over heels for a cute punk rock boy and an all black wardrobe. It represented so much, the chic sophistication of the big city New York fashion and younger club crowd, a hard edge to cover up my insecurity and protect from my sweet self, and maybe a bit of drama and mystery.
Inside the apparel industry, black is always the number one selling color way. Black puffers and parkas line the sidewalks along with the first flakes of snow, while black bathing suits soak up the sun. And don’t get me started on black pumps, stilettos, and sneakers.
However, black clothing only helps a small percentage of women shine bright. It overpowers muted Summers and Autumns, and dulls warm Springs. Just like the North Face or Moncler puffers, Winters may sparkle in the color. (Each season describes attributes of our natural human coloring, like warm or cool tones, bright or muted eyes and hair, and light or dark features. We are all absolutely, perfectly unique and possess inner and outer beauty. The seasons are a way to categorize coloring on the journey toward your personal radiant style. Stay tuned for color stories and tips!)
There is no easy way to tell you, but black may not be your best color! We will talk all about color, and at some point I will ask you the question: do you want to keep black in your closet?
I know, I know. Black is the "go-to" for so many of us—it’s the superhero of wardrobes! It goes with everything, makes us feel effortlessly chic, and gives off that edgy, mysterious vibe. Some wear it because it’s easy, some wear it because it adds that tough-girl flair, and some wear it because, well, we've been told it’s a basic building block of any wardrobe. But let’s stop for a second and think: how is black actually serving you in your wardrobe?
I am really curious about what you find out about your relationship with black outfits! Please let me know: comment below with your why and why not!
Maybe it’s time to add a little more sparkle to your closet and start embracing the colors that really light you up. Trust me, once you find your perfect palette, you’ll feel like you’ve unlocked a whole new level of style.
So, how do we make this transition to a more colorful wardrobe? Let's start small—no need to completely ditch your favorite black pieces. You can still wear black (I promise I won’t make you give it up entirely!) but let’s experiment with how to balance it with some color.
Let me teach a trick that styles black for those of us who are not naturally dramatic in tones or personality: wear the black away from the face, and wrap your upper beautiful body in a color that matches your hair, eye or skin.
This teddy bear jacket sets the scene to wear black in a more subtle way, with its vertical black button placket down center front. Worn open or closed, it will create a nice line, pointing to the neck and fresh face.
Cuddly Date Night Outfit
This is one way to wear black, but not go all out dominatrix! The teddy fur keeps hugs and cuddles on the romantic menu.
Black and White Create Energy in this Outfit
Black is great at creating energy: the dark / light contrast of pairing it with white bounces the eye in an exciting rhythm. This outfit gives endless errand energy, but keeps us grounded in a ‘can't wait to snuggle in front of the tv when I get home’ - kinda way!
Use Black Accents in a Professional Outfit
In this outfit, black is used as accent only, really making that placket pop. Upping the percentage of neutral softness, gives a more classic feeling fit that is perfect for public speaking or presentations. The black lines of the placket point to what you are saying, and focus on your message.
Experiment with Black Dressing on the Side
Try an experiment with toning down the black meter in your outfits: move all your black articles to another area in your home. It doesn’t need to be as drastic as the attic, but maybe a guest bedroom or kids room closet. Unlike some fashionistas, I don’t suggest the oven. How do you feel when you open your wardrobe doors and see everything other than black? Are you as desperate for a black sweater as I am for that first cup of coffee? Or do you feel a neutral shade of camel, like your coffee with cream? Maybe you are feeling fresh-faced and cheerful as sunshine yellow? Honor your feelings. If you are jonesing for the morning cup of black, it is just a few steps away.
Challenge yourself to giving less black a try. If you just don’t know what to wear instead of black, a personal stylist can help! Knowing your personal palette is one step to guide your purchase and outfit creative processes. Everyone is creative and you can do this! You just may need some teaching or guidance. Your Style Coach™ welcomes you to a shining new morning, every day!
PS. Just curious, how much black is in your closet?
How much black is in your closet?
I wear black almost every day
My closet is about 33/33/33: Black, White, and Denim
I wear black to events and parties
I love color and rarely wear black
You can vote for more than one answer.
PPS. This is how I like to wear black with my naturally soft, muted palette: in leopard print, with pops of brighter color
Comentarios