Black is Always the New Black

No matter how vociferously designers, stores and the press promote color, good old black remains a big favorite. Certainly, living here in the big city, black for fall transitions so smoothly to the whipping winds and cold city streets that beckon at our doorstep. So, what do we do? We blend in with the landscape.

“The color black does not make mistakes”, said Caroline de Maigret, model and muse, in an interview for How to Be Parisian Wherever You Are, a guide to French secrets, which she wrote with three friends. While it’s no secret that inky tones never go out of fashion, there are some gems in the book as a reminder that when in doubt, go back to black.

You may think wearing head-to-toe black is quite boring, but the look can actually be pretty badass. It is simply a matter of styling, and mixing textures, fabrics, and shapes. Curating a monochrome wardrobe will keep you from milling over outfit options in the morning, since nothing can ever mismatch. And, black just looks so damn chic 24/7.

Here is how I styled an almost all-black head-to-toe look, sans the denim jeans, transitioning from summer to fall working with a slip dress, a black sheer top, black jeans, and Birkenstocks. And then adding layers on top of layers.

Topshop black slip dress // Topshop black silk shirt //Frame denim  jeans // Anna Coroneo scarf // Ray-Ban sunnies // Birkenstocks / / Pierre Hardy bag

For the quick transition to fall/ winter weather, add sweaters, boots and hats. They are the statement pieces du jour.

 Click on the pics below to purchase the selections above.

Photos: Lydia Hudgens