Saturday, November 15, 2008

Black: Stylish, Elegant and Timeless

Black never seems to be out of style and not only because of its association with some of the most stylish women in history including Audrey Hepburn, think the LBD off Breakfast at Tiffany's, but also because it is one of the best ways to show your own classic style or the gothic glam chic inside of you - think the runway collections from Christian Dior, Balmain or Givenchy.

The principals on how to wear Black, which is technically a 'non-colour', always stay the same and here are a few ways to ensure you get it right every time:

Black on Black is very slimming

Black is best worn together with black. Combine tailored pants and a fitted black top or shirt as a main outfit and it looks great with a baby bump. Add accessories which are a contrast for interest for example one of Rachael Ruddick's Gunmetal or Gold metallic Kirribilli Clutches or a uniquely coloured clutch would work perfectly for a lunch or dinner type event.

Black Jeans or Pants should be a wardrobe staple

If you are more of a 'jeans girl' then you should have a black pair of jeans in your wardrobe. It doesn't matter if you prefer skinny leg jeans over boot leg, or wide styles as these are purely used as a great base to the rest of your outfit. An example of how this works with skinny leg jeans is where you would introduce a loose printed T-shirt, a brightly coloured scarf and French Sole ballet flats for a young and edgy look, or, for a more grown up look, you would introduce a feature tunic (which has black within it), like the BY Malene Birger Desert Rose Dress with black heels and simple black clutch.

Texture is key to success

Try combining black on black using matt black with black lace and other luxurious textures like velvet and silk. Team pearls and chains with these textures for an extra luxe look. For a more fun and flirty feel combine some brightly coloured accessories in strategic places - a hot pink belt under your bust area will cinch you in at the smallest part of a woman's torso (pregnant or not), or try a super long necklace with a plunging neckline to point the focus to your decolletage.

Black was such a popular theme through the entire Spring Summer 2008/2009 season at Rosemount Australian Fashion Week, so follow these simple rules and introduce your own unique style to your outfits and you will be on trend right into 2009.