Black is Back – Always
If only I had one dollar for every time someone said “I only wear black,” or “I have so much black in my wardrobe” I probably wouldn’t be writing this post and would be sunning myself on a black-pebbled beach somewhere.
So what is wrong with black? Absolutely nothing!
In fact, I wish I’d written the famous fashion quote: I’ll stop wearing black when they event a darker colour.
I love it! Audrey Hepburn loved it on and off the screen and today, the likes of Victoria Beckham, Rachel Zoe and Angelina Jolie also love their dark wardrobes.
However, black does not suit us all, especially when it’s worn close to the face. So while I know it’s almost summer and I should be talking about the millions of beautiful colours you could wear, I’m going to suggest black.
Black, which is not a colour I know, but for the purpose of this article I will call it a colour, it really is the colour that goes with everything. It’s classic, elegant, simple and slimming – yes it is!
So when you think of the lovely Audrey, she is most memorable in her LBD’s in Sabrina and Breakfast at Tiffany’s while off camera, it was black cigarette pants, a black knit teamed with black flats and accessories.
Her black wasn’t a sin; worn correctly, it actually made Audrey a style icon to this day.
Now if you love colour, that’s wonderful! As a stylist, I work with so many colours to suit my clients needs all year round but today’s blog post is about ways you can allow black to find a place in your personal style.
If you’ve worked with me, or another stylist you’ll know about the vast selection of colours that complement you. While black is not suited to everyone along with white, it is the only shade that will offset almost any colour combination.
While wearing black head to toe is very popular and a look I personally love, it’s nice to break it up in the warmer months.
While many consultants will ban clients from wearing black “as it’s not in their group”, I will do no such thing but merely show you exactly how you can wear it;
- If you are wearing it close to your face, try wearing more makeup or a bold red lip if it suits you.
- Black can drain paler skin so try wearing some colours that do suit you in a scarf or necklace.
- Black is flattering and head to toe can be everything. However, you can break up the neck area with a necklace or use a coloured jacket to sit over the dark silhouette.
- Mix fabrics and textures to bring more interest to your look. For the warmer months and for something lightweight, this season’s lace, jersey or cotton will work beautifully.
- Black will always look good at the office. Bring in your favourite colours to showcase your personality through shoes and accessories. Even a colourful belt around the waist, beneath a jacket will add a touch of character.
So as a fan of black, even through the summer months, I thoroughly enjoyed taking these blog photos today to showcase some pieces you can try!
Do you LOVE black? Do you wear it consistently or stay away from it? I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.
Mairead says
Great post Cindy! The most important takeaway for me is wearing a little more makeup than normal when wearing black close to the face. You’re dead right on that one, and I hadn’t thought of it before.
Cindy Newstead says
That’s great Mairead, give it a try 🙂
Kim Kennedy says
Great post Cindy. Wow, you look like Jessica Rabbit in that Bardot jumpsuit! Amazing!
Cindy Newstead says
Well thank you Kim!!
Suzi says
Absolutely fantastic shoes please tell me where they are from ?
Cindy Newstead says
Hi Suzi – the shoes are from Kookai 🙂
Suzi says
Thanks so much follow your blog from the uk
Cindy Newstead says
That’s great Suzi!!!!! I am so pleased you are enjoying our blogs!! xo
Nikki Casey says
Hi Cindy,
So glad you chose to talk about “Black”. I have always adored it and it forms the basis of my wardrobe. It is a foundation we can all build on and I think your pointers about breaking black with colour are great. You’re a marvellous example of accessorising at its best. Always love your suggestions which open our eyes to greater possibilities with style. x
Cindy Newstead says
Yes Nikki, girl after my own heart!!! Love love love black!!!!! xo
melina says
Hi Cindy , wow I’m soooo thrilled that the black skirt from sportsgirl fit me and doesn’t look bad at all
Cindy Newstead says
Great Melina, so pleased you purchased the skirt from the blog, well done!!! xo