Open
Scenes from a Friday night…

We started at @littleblackbirddc a new wine bar in Cleveland Park where we had great food, drink, and conversation into the evening. We then headed down the street to @atomicbilliards for a whole different experience and to keep the conversation going. I treasure my friendships with @sylviacolella (who had a birthday recently), @districtofchic, and @blonde_inthedistrict they’re the real deal 🥰

My dress is @adamlippes borrowed via @renttherunway and Cheetos with Sauvignon Blanc is a really fun pairing!
Open
Night and day…

Met three dear friends for an early dinner that went on until after the sun set. Great food and conversation with some great women!

The dress is @adamlippes and I borrowed it from @renttherunway. The bag is @jcrew and a splurge but I regretted not buying it the last time they offered this bag and this color is SO me. I mean, look how great it is with these many years old suede heeled sandals? Meant to be!

This color combination makes me so happy, and this dress was comfy even after a decadent meal. We all deserve to experience comfort and joy with our wardrobes! 💛🩷

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4jnDf #ltkplussize #ltkmidsize #ltkover40 #midsizestyle #genxstyle #over40style
Open
If @thechicks are in town you can bet @debbiefaye78 and I will be there! So when we heard they were coming to @merriweatherpp we were so excited. And their concert did not disappoint. As always, a phenomenal show! If The Chicks come to your neck of the woods I highly recommend you go!

Okay I know you want to know about what we’re wearing! 

My sister’s caftan is from @anthropologie (bought this summer so maybe you can find on resale sites).

I’m wearing a @bananarepublic dress also from this summer with the @universalstandard denim chore jacket and a hat I got from a @madewell collab a year or so ago. I glammed it up with some gold chains and gold drop earrings, but kept it comfy for a night of standing and dancing with @birkenstock sandals.

This was my first big outing since my eye surgery, and with a pocketful of eye drops I felt good (and grateful we splurged for good seats!).

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4jcBL #ltkmidsize #ltkover40 #midsizestyle #genxstyle #usinthewild #concertstyle
Open
For years I’ve trusted @somaintimates for the right bras and the right fit but it had been a while since I visited a Soma boutique to try on all the styles they currently have for a large bust. I must say I was impressed! Knowledgeable staff, extensive collection in larger sizes, and some of the most comfortable and innovative bras in up to H cups! Each body is different but what I loved:

- The Stunning Push-Up: targeted for the DD+ customer gives amazing lift and great shape under fitted knits.

- The Unbelievable Lift Scoop Balconette: sexy, supportive, and so lightweight!

- The Embraceable Wireless: I’ve recommended this wireless bra for large busts for years and was in need for a new one! 

- The Stunning Support Smooth Balconette: this is the perfect t-shirt bra for large busts with padded straps and disappears under knits

- The Stunning Starlet Multi-Way Strapless: recently improved for more support and more comfort, this wireless bra stays put and gives fab shape

I also picked up some of Soma’s iconic Vanishing Edge panties which keep you line-free. The whole Vanishing collection is genius. I loved being able to donate my gently used bras at my local Soma boutique to give to those in need. We all deserve a lift and Soma strives to achieve that. It’s why I’ve been a fan and customer for years and am honored to partner with them. Soma is the perfect fitting bra solution. Visit the link in my bio to shop and to find your local Soma boutique! #SomaPartner #SomaBraFit #SomaStartsWithMe
Open
If I close my eyes you can’t tell one is still bloodshot 😜

Still recovering from my eye surgery but feeling more myself. Getting dolled up helps me feel me. Bright colors and bold jewelry have been signature Alison since I was a kid! 

Sweater: @favorite.daughter 
Earrings: Amazon
Necklace: @_jennybird (old)
Ring: @realmfinejewelry 
Bra: @lovebravissimo 
Lipstick: @glossier 
Pins as “cufflinks”: vintage

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4j0LM #ltkmidsize #midsizestyle #over40style #ltkover40 #genxstyle
Open
It was so funny and so quick I couldn’t not share! I bought this @hulkenbag a year ago and use it all the time. Carting shoot supplies, groceries, packing for road trips, and carting donations. This weekend @thenewdealcafe in @cityofgreenbelt hosted a community clothing swap so I made sure my family and I went through our summer wardrobes to gather that which we no longer needed or fit.

This wasn’t the first clothing swap and folks in town know my style (and my job) so there were some waiting for my arrival. Look how fast I cleared out this big bag! Speaking of the bag one other swap attendee said she got herself a Hulken after seeing mine in action!

It’s so great to know our old clothes are getting a good life and this bag makes carting them to the cafe so easy! I got my Hulken on Amazon, it comes in other colors and sizes too: https://amzn.to/48iTY4Y yep the bag is as great as all those ads you see on social media, I’m a big fan!
Open
I had to see… I asked my husband how often he thinks about the Roman Empire, and then asked our 14-year-old 😂
Open
#ad Go through my archives on Wardrobe Oxygen and one thing is clear: my family and I are a fan of @bombas socks! From their no-slip no-show socks to their iconic crew socks, Bombas makes great socks for the whole family while having a great heart.

Socks are the #1 requested article of clothing from homeless shelters. For every item purchase from Bombas, one is donated to someone experiencing homelessness. 

Save 20% on your first purchase at Bombas with my exclusive promo code: WARDROBE20

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4ipHy #bombas
Open
Happy gotcha day, Oscar! Four years ago he came into our life and we are so happy to have in our family!

Oscar was a rescue and came with some… quirks. Over the years we have come to understand him and he has come to trust us. He’s a diva, a snuggler, he could play catch for hours, and he’s my husband’s shadow. 

We’ve never had a small breed dog before and it’s a whole different experience. But we adore Oscar and couldn’t imagine our life without him! Thank you for coming into our life Oskie McGoskie! 🐾❤️
  • Fashion
    • Capsule Wardrobes
    • Outfit Posts
  • Beauty
    • Skincare
    • Curly Hair
  • Lifestyle
    • Perimenopause
    • Health and Wellness
    • Travel
  • Subscribe
  • Home
  • About
    • Contact
    • Work with Me
    • Privacy Policy
    • Exclusive Promo Codes for Wardrobe Oxygen
  • Fashion
    • Capsule Wardrobes
    • Outfits
    • Plus Size Fashion
    • Denim
    • Footwear
    • Activewear
    • Swimwear
    • Underpinnings and Sleepwear
  • Beauty
    • Curly Hair
    • Skincare
  • Lifestyle
    • Perimenopause
    • Travel
    • The Business of Blogging

Wardrobe Oxygen

Real-life style for grown women

  • Home
  • About
    • Contact
    • Work with Me
    • Privacy Policy
    • Exclusive Promo Codes for Wardrobe Oxygen
  • Fashion
    • Capsule Wardrobes
    • Outfits
    • Plus Size Fashion
    • Denim
    • Footwear
    • Activewear
    • Swimwear
    • Underpinnings and Sleepwear
  • Beauty
    • Curly Hair
    • Skincare
  • Lifestyle
    • Perimenopause
    • Travel
    • The Business of Blogging

Fashion Advice · September 19, 2012

Wardrobe Staples: Why I Promote Black

This article may contain affiliate links; if you click on a shopping link and make a purchase I may receive a commission. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 

wardrobe staples women every woman needs closet

Ever since I wrote my original Wardrobe Staples for Women post in 2005, I get at least one comment or email a week asking, “Why black?” Why do I suggest black suiting, a black dress, and black shoes as the best choice for all women? Black is harsh, black is somber, black washes some people out.

Yes, black can bring to mind funerals and goth kids loitering in shopping malls. Black washes some people out, and is not the best color choice as you age. But black has so many perks and there’s not really any other color that accomplishes all that black can do:

Black is Stylish Every Month of the Year.

Some browns only seem appropriate in fall, others only appropriate in summer. The same holds true with grays, navys, and greens.

Black isn’t Trendy.

Maybe this year it’s a dark chocolate brown that’s hot, next year it may have more of a camel tint to it. Three years from now, both shades of brown can be seen as passé for it’s a gray-brown that’s the hot hue. This never happens with black – black is always chic. Black also hides trends better – a black blazer looks more on trend in five years than one in a color.

Black Matches Black.

Have you ever tried finding a pair of shoes to match a navy suit? What do you do if you damage your gray blazer for the suit you purchased three years ago? What do you do when you have a new position that requires pantsuits (construction, science, etc.) and your expensive perfectly-fitting brown suit only has a skirt? Point is, it’s easier to match black to black. It’s simple to buy shoes, bags, and accessories. It’s easier to match separates to build your suiting wardrobe, and you’re more likely to be able to replace a pair of pants that stretch out or a skirt that is no longer a current silhouette.

Black Hides Stains.

Not only does it hide stains, but it hides your attempt to get rid of the stain with Tide-to-Go, hides sweat, and even hides many creases and wrinkles. Black is a frequent-flier’s friend, and a good buddy of us working women with toddler grubby hands giving us a hug goodbye.

Black isn’t Memorable.

At my last job, I traveled a lot for business. I actually started blogging my outfits to prevent wearing the same thing twice to see a client. I started this… because I went to visit a client in another state and she said, “Oh you wore that cream suit again, it’s so nice on you.” I had only met her three times over six months, and twice I wore the same suit. While I wore different blouses and shoes, the suit was so memorable that I became The Woman in the Cream Suit. That wouldn’t have happened with black. When you have black in your wardrobe, you don’t need to purchase as much to look as though you have variety.

Black is Versatile.

A black gabardine pantsuit can be worn with a crisp button-front shirt and loafers to a client meeting, with a silk blouse and pearls to a business lunch, with a beaded camisole and silk heels to a cocktail party or wedding, with a bustier and red lips for a hot night on the town. You can’t do that with gray, navy, or brown.

Black Looks More Expensive.

Put a $200 black suit next to an $800 black suit, and you will see the difference, but those differences won’t be as visible from a distance. Put a $200 navy suit next to an $800 navy suit and you can tell the difference a mile away. Colors better show the quality of the fabric, the stitching, the choice in buttons and details. Black not only hides figure flaws, but also many manufacturing flaws.

Black Goes on Sale.

My Ann Taylor Triacetate suiting collection was all bought on clearance. A blazer this year, a skirt another year, a sheath on eBay, a pair of pants during a promotion. It’s far easier to buy suiting piecemeal from a retailer if it’s a color they offer season after season. Not only do colors change from season to season, but they sell out faster because they are a change from basic black. If you’re looking to start a suiting collection on a budget, you’ll have more luck with black than any other color.

Black is a Neutral.

I surely hope you’re not heading to a client meeting or a holiday party in a black suit with black blouse, black hose, and black shoes. If you do that, you will give off the funeral/death/goth/sadness/anger vibe, and yes, it may wash you out. However, if you pair a black pantsuit with a shell pink silk blouse, or a cobalt button-front shirt, or a peacock-blue print shell it will highlight your face and take center stage. With a flattering color, black becomes a frame and a platform for your ensemble. My mother regularly tells me that black washes her out, yet she wears it. She wears it with a colorful scarf at her throat, with a cheery shade near her face, with bold jewelry to distract.

Black is Budget-Friendly.

You can spot clean it, you can wear it year from year and season to season. You can dress it up and down. You don’t need a closet full of shoes and bags to accessorize properly for each occasion. Black doesn’t show wear as quickly as a color. With black you can have just one suit, one pair of pumps, one dress, one bag. You can truly buy quality instead of quantity.

***

So what do you do if you absolutely cannot and will not wear black? I recommend gray. Navy is the hardest color on the planet to match, brown can look dated and dumpy if not done correctly, and any other color is too memorable. If you buy gray in a classic menswear-inspired gray fabric, you will get a classic look that will complement pastels, neutrals, and jewel tones. It’s a fabric that will stay en vogue for a considerable amount of time, and you can find at all sorts of price points. However, it won’t be as versatile (can’t wear to a cocktail party, evening wedding, etc.) and may be hard to match later on down the line. But gray is chic, traditional, and classic.

And as with all my posts, these are suggestions, not gospel.  I am not expecting all the world to agree with me.  I just have learned from many years as a personal shopper, visual merchandiser, and employee in Corporate America that black is a great choice when trying to purchase versatile wardrobe staples.


Now I ask you wise readers, what do you choose if you do not choose black? How do you make it versatile, and where do you find quality wardrobe staples in classic but non-black colors?

Follow Me | Twitter | Facebook

alison signature

In: Fashion Advice

Did you like what you just read?

Consider tapping here to buy me a coffee in thanks. The best gift you can give a content creator is the gift of sharing. Consider sharing this article on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest. Thank you so much for your support!

join the community

You’ll Also Love

Ask Allie: Fashion Advice for a Petite SAHMAsk Allie: Fashion Advice for a Petite SAHM
Thursday
Best Buys of the Year from My Stylish Friends

Comments

  1. Marina Doshkevich says

    October 16, 2014 at 2:15 pm

    You know, not all black is the same color!!!! I like wearing black, I have pale skin, dark blue eyes, and red hair, and black makes me look very vivid. But there are blacks that don’t flatter my skin tone. I tend to be sort of green skinned, and any sort of green tint looks hideous on me. So a more green based black is bad. The best blacks for me are brown/ navy/red based. Its not like a black shirt is made up out of a black hole or anti matter.

    Reply
  2. Appreciative of your help! says

    May 29, 2014 at 4:25 pm

    Late to the post clearly! But it resonated with me; I’ve been shying away from black because I was told it was unflattering but miss it very much for all the reasons you say here, especially the sheer simplicity of it. This might be a stupid question but … how do you know whether it’s flattering or not? I don’t have a great eye for these things. I think it looks fine; I can see navy is a bit nicer on me but not as versatile as you say. But I have had color consultants say I should never wear it. I have dark hair but softer eyes and skin, which is their reasoning. Any tips? Or is it one of those, if you like it, wear it kinda things … thanks so much for any thoughts!

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      May 29, 2014 at 4:28 pm

      I do believe if you like it, wear it! I usually balance it with rosier cheeks or a bold lip in a flattering shade, a lower neckline or an accessory near the face (scarf or necklace) to distract can also help. Also google famous women of your age or coloring and see how they make black work for inspiration 🙂

      Reply
      • Appreciative of your help! says

        May 29, 2014 at 10:17 pm

        Thank you and thanks for your blog … I’m having so much fun going through it and creating capsules in my closet inspired by yours 🙂

        Reply
  3. Kirra Antrobus says

    September 2, 2013 at 6:13 pm

    Are black shoes ever the wrong choice? I have 2 pair of these very dark wash denim jeans that I wear nearly every day. http://www.christopherandbanks.com/modern-fit-everyday-denim-pant-average-zid9-00707765946/cat-9-catid-100150?vva_ColorCode=438&_t=pfm%3Dcategory I love them, but I’ve started to think that my black shoes look a little funny with them. I thought about finding some white shoes to wear with them instead, but it’s not exactly the right time of year to find many choices in white shoes.

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      September 3, 2013 at 9:27 am

      I don’t think white shoes would be a better choice. Black can seem heavy in the warmer months and a brown or tan may be a nice alternative in summer, but black is a safe bet, and looks very nice with dark wash denim! Come the cooler months, brown is a good alternative to black if you find black too harsh or a bad choice with the rest of your wardrobe. I suggest a darker chocolate color, but with brown the quality of leather is more visible so you need to be careful with construction and quality. 🙂

      Reply
      • Kirra Antrobus says

        September 3, 2013 at 1:04 pm

        Thank you! I appreciate the advice! I’ll keep my eyes open for a nice dark brown shoe.

        Reply
  4. Lisa says

    September 26, 2012 at 10:34 pm

    Wow, this is so well thought out! This is why I LOVE reading your blog. You are fashionable AND extremely practical! Your understanding of and empathy for the challenges of “real” women is nothing short of amazing. You should seriously consider becoming a fashion magazine editor. 🙂 I’m tired of buying what they’re selling – only one way to be stylish: skinny, young, and rich. And I get your blog for free, but I’d gladly pay for the much more holistic advice I get here.

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      September 26, 2012 at 10:35 pm

      Oh thank you Lisa! 🙂

      Reply
  5. Laurel Walker says

    September 24, 2012 at 11:02 am

    I wear lots of black- however, definitely need to invest in more quality black. Thanks for all the tips… and the reminders why simple is better.
    http://www.theopinionatedgirl.com

    Reply
  6. laura says

    September 21, 2012 at 1:28 pm

    Amen. I have always worn a ton of black. My wardrobe is over half black. I wear grey as well, but not as much. I always buy navy and brown to try and get away from the black and grey but they always end up sitting in the closet for months. So instead I’m starting to throw in brighter different colors with the black to bring in the color – like today it’s a bright pink ponte jacket with the black pants.
    I do disagree that all blacks match. for suiting it really needs to be the exact same fabric and usually from the same store. else you’ll end up looking cheap with a black that has some red in it next to a black that has a green tone. instead I get a patterned piece with black in it to match with whatever item from the suit is still wearable.

    Reply
  7. MamaCheshire says

    September 21, 2012 at 12:55 am

    I am in a field that sometimes requires site visits under less-than-pretty conditions, and I have a not always easily found shoe size, AND a damaged foot that requires orthotics. Since the orthotics, having a base of black shoes, black socks, black pants, sometimes a black shell, and something pretty and colorful that works with black as a top layer has simplified my wardrobe-planning a lot. Before all this, I was trying to “branch out” away from black and ending up with things that just didn’t match anything else very well. Sometimes simplest is best. 🙂

    Reply
  8. DC Celine says

    September 20, 2012 at 1:21 pm

    for some reason, this topic is sticking in my craw, so a few additional notes: 1) i’m not sure where the “black washes ‘older’ women out” thing comes from – there are so many famous (and fair) women who rock the black – everyone from Susan Sarandon to Julia Roberts (yes, she’s up there now) to uber fair like Gwyneth Paltrow and Diane Keaton. 2) I wonder if perhaps the trick to all of it is a woman’s own sense of self and how she presents herself: the more confident, happy, and strong a woman appears, the less likely a piece of clothing is to “dull” her. (Though if I reach for a pale pink sweater one more time, I swear my friends will kill me.) Nothing like a demure, mysterious smile (or a broad grin) to make the observer completely forget about what the smiler is wearing.

    Reply
    • Christine says

      September 20, 2012 at 6:26 pm

      I’m not sure if you’re referring to my comments but my self confidence is just fine and black looks bad on me. Yes, other fair women wear it well, and older women do too. I just don’t like it on me.

      Reply
  9. Erica says

    September 20, 2012 at 1:15 pm

    As animal lover and lover of black clothes, I’m always reaching for the lint roller. That’s the only downside in my book. I guess my next dog will just need to be black!

    Reply
  10. DC Celine says

    September 20, 2012 at 1:08 pm

    So. I’m currently digging my heels in against buying a LBD. And yet, I agree with literally everything you’ve said – and as a “pale redhead” I have to say that nothing washes me out more than a taupe or light brown. True, everything is relative, but I happen to like the contrast of fair skin, black clothing, and dark strawberry blonde hair. Also, wear makeup. A red lip won’t hurt 😉

    Reply
    • Christine says

      September 20, 2012 at 6:30 pm

      Again, not sure if this is pointing to me, but I don’t wear taupe or light brown either. I’m glad you like the contrast you described but I don’t. I’m not sure why you think I’m not trying hard enough…I do wear makeup and red lips are my trademark. I expressed my opinions about my PERSONAL view of black on ME, and didn’t ask for advice. I just wanted to express why I don’t wear black.

      Reply
  11. Mrs.M in MI says

    September 20, 2012 at 10:58 am

    My only problem with black is that I find my black basics limiting in terms of what I feel I can pair them with. To my eye, with my ultra-fair coloring, black looks off-kilter with pastels, dated with bright colors, and starts to veer into the funereal with jewel tones. So I’m left with white or cream (which does look good, I will admit, but is kind of boring), or putting it into an amalgam of neutrals.

    Suits are not required at my office or in my life, but I do wear the pieces broken up, so it’s not matching the blacks that’s an issue but the matching of black with other pieces and colors.

    I’m not saying that I don’t wear oodles of black, because I do, but most days I’m reaching for my navy, gray, or tan basics over black. Everything else you’ve said about black, I definitely agree with!

    Reply
  12. Bridget says

    September 20, 2012 at 8:52 am

    Black is heavy, black is aging. I have eliminated it from my wardrobe in favor of gray and navy. I urge everyone to figure out what looks great with eye/skin/natural hair color, and ignore fashion rules.

    Reply
  13. Sonia says

    September 20, 2012 at 8:46 am

    To me nothing says professonal, power and class than a black sleeveless sheath. Paired with a cardigan, add pearls and I’m set to go.
    As someone else that works in New York City, I love wearing black and have whole sections of my wardrobe dedicated to this wonderfully go-with-everything color. However, when I lived in Florida years ago, I wouldn’t have been caught dead in black; it was considered too dark.

    Reply
  14. Jo H. says

    September 20, 2012 at 2:28 am

    If you have never had the skin tone, the hair colour, or the aging complexion which makes black look bad, I can see how black would be the best neutral for you and it would be tempting to recommend it. Personally, I will not wear black because it looks very bad on me for all three of the above reasons, and that affects my morale as well as my appearance. Gray and brown have the same effect, so I wear navy as my neutral. I don’t find it any harder to match than black, which is not to say that navy is easy, but to say that black is difficult!

    As you wisely pointed out at the end of your post, Allie, your advice – as good and as experienced as it is – might not work for everyone. I encourage women who might still be unsure to listen to their instincts. Do you feel good or bad in that colour? Your gut will tell you.

    Reply
  15. Cynthia says

    September 19, 2012 at 9:34 pm

    I used to be an all black and jewel tones person, but now black almost seems out of place in my wardrobe. The black things live in a little capsule all by themselves. I think if I had to do suiting, I’d try taupe. I’ve always thought of it as a horrible non-color, but it actually looks better next to my face than straight grey.

    Reply
  16. crtfly says

    September 19, 2012 at 8:42 pm

    Allie,

    Today you talked about black clothing with a few comments about navy thrown in. Sallie over at Already Pretty today talked about navy clothes with a few comments about black thrown in.

    Did you two plan that or is it coincidence?

    By reading both of your blogs today, I got quite a few good ideas.

    Thank you,

    Chris

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      September 20, 2012 at 6:20 am

      LOL I guess it’s another situation of like minds, happens often with me and Sal! 🙂

      Reply
  17. Angela says

    September 19, 2012 at 7:53 pm

    I agree black is good for basics and a starter wardrobe but for me black is dreadful by my face. I am slowly replacing it with navy, and keeping a smaller wardrobe of neutrals. But in the first few years of working, I had the whole black, mix and match thing going on.

    Reply
  18. Rebecca says

    September 19, 2012 at 6:28 pm

    Add me to the black fan-club. I buy multiple pairs of the same black trousers when the old ones start to wear out because they serve as a base to everything else. I never have to worry about whether this pair of black shoes goes with that pair of pants, because they always do; textured, matte, patent, they all go.

    Not so for grey, navy or brown. I have moments of wanting to move my wardrobe toward browns, but there are just too many shades and variants to keep track of.

    For me, what one person calls boring is what I call grounded; I am far more willing to experiment with other parts of my outfit (colors, mixed patterns, jewelry, crazy purses. etc) when I know I have that one piece of black that grounds the outfit and makes it feel accessible.

    Reply
  19. Christine says

    September 19, 2012 at 6:13 pm

    I just can’t wear black. I’m a pale redhead and black just dulls my skin, eyes and hair. Since I don’t have an office job, I stick to dark brown. It can be hard to find, it can be hard to match — though for me it’s worth holding out for the right brown piece. I do have a “little brown dress” with a fabulous cut and high quality material. It works well on most occasions, though I think dark colors are wrong for a wedding. If you’re having a beautiful black tie wedding, black is great, but at a lot of wedding I see dull black pantsuits, ill fitting dresses and they all look funereal. This applies to guests wearing any color but I think attention to hair, makeup and jewelry, etc is important to add a festive touch.

    When I did work in an office, I did wear black, and it was not flattering, and people let me know!

    Black is easy and my wardrobe would be much simpler in all black and bless those who can wear it! Allie, you always look great in black!

    Reply
    • Katelyn Jackson says

      September 20, 2012 at 12:03 pm

      I too am a pale natural redhead and black washes me out big time. So does white if there are photos involved. Most grays similarly look dull on me and do nothing for my skin tone. I look good in navy or a dark brown. I can wear black pants fine if my top is a flattering jewel tone. Luckily, I am now a stay at home mom and jeans and a casual top make up my wardrobe needs. I do own a black tank top for the summer but I generally have more color from being outside with my 2 year old then. I’m in the process (it’s a long one with my small budget) of ridding my closet of the black/grey tone and focussing more on browns/blues/greens/deep purples which I prefer and IMO just look better on me. My wardrobe is not as colorful as many, but it works for me.

      I also want to agree that blacks can be hard to match if not made from the same material. It sounds weird but I notice the different “shades” of black. Maybe it’s from fading and wear or the way light reflects differently off of different material, but I can definitely “see” it and it bothers me.

      Reply
      • Marina Doshkevich says

        October 16, 2014 at 2:24 pm

        Are you sure? I am pale and have red hair, and I love black and white. I love grey too. I also think that blacks of different textures are amazing together. The only color I won’t wear is been, which is too bad with all the lovely green out right now…but then I feel like a carrot.

        Reply
  20. Linda L says

    September 19, 2012 at 4:56 pm

    Sorry, not to be negative but the overwearing of black is one of my pet peeves. I just can’t stand looking like everybody else so I wear my black only once in a while. Everyone does black bottoms with a colored top – yawn! And in the summer I just wish everyone would put the black away already. Grey and navy are my neutral preferences because I love to wear color and black really sucks the life out of mid and light shades. You are right about the matching being hard, but I also have a hard time matching black jackets with black bottoms if they were not made as a suit. I think there are a lot of variations of blacks and ever since someone told me in my 20’s that blacks have to match I’ve been paranoid about it. Anyway, I love you Allie and your style and wisdom. Different strokes for different folks!

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      September 19, 2012 at 5:05 pm

      You can tell by my wardrobe I agree with you. I am just talking about basics per my wardrobe staples list. An all black wardrobe can be stark and modern if done with strong silhouettes, otherwise it can be boring. I think many feel that black makes them invisible but it really doesn’t. In fact I wrote about this very topic! 🙂 https://www.wardrobeoxygen.com/2008/02/black-doesnt-make-you-look-slimmer-it.html

      Reply
    • Marina Doshkevich says

      October 16, 2014 at 2:21 pm

      People do overwear black some. My favorite neutral is grey. And I agree nothing worse then a colored top and black trousers!!! But black trousers and a crisp white shirt are right on the money. I think people just assume that black matches everything, and it really doesn’t.

      Reply
  21. Emily Kate - Capital Style says

    September 19, 2012 at 2:22 pm

    I went to a trend report overview thing back in the spring and my favorite thing that was said was “black is the new black.” Ha ha! Also, I am the poster child for black hides stains. If there is drink to be spilled, a pen to leak, a puddle to be splashed, I’ll find it. So many “well at least I’m wearing black” days.

    Reply
  22. Bonnie Mann, CPA says

    September 19, 2012 at 1:42 pm

    Great post. When I was young, I wore a lot of matched navy suits because I am very pale and black can wash me out. When I changed jobs and matched suits were no longer a requirement, I realized what you stated which is that black is much easier to match than navy and switched. Recently I have felt I was over using black to the point that my wardrobe became boring. Five pairs of black dress pants means you wearing black everyday and after awhile no one is seeing the differences in the cuts and styles only that you are wearing black every day. I have put more grey and navy back into my wardrobe to give it some variety. But I agree that black is still the best way to start to build your wardrobe.

    Reply
  23. Margot says

    September 19, 2012 at 12:49 pm

    Gray and Navy are my black. I don’t mind about it not matching because I dress in tones rather than exact color matches. It works for me;-).

    Reply
  24. Lawgirl says

    September 19, 2012 at 12:48 pm

    Good points. I disagree on buying cheap suits in black. To me the only thing that looks cheaper than a black polyester suit is a white cheap suit. I think you’re better off with gray pinstripes or a dark, subtle nubby-type tweed, herringbone, or plaid pattern if you need to go cheap… Express and The Limited can take you places when you can’t afford Ann Taylor, Theory, or Tahari. Just my 2 cents… http://www.express.com/herringbone-bracelet-sleeve-peplum-jacket-49983-701/control/page/8/show/3/index.pro

    Reply
  25. SE says

    September 19, 2012 at 12:42 pm

    Alright, I needed to hear this. Good timing. Like your mom, I’ve been telling myself black is too harsh (well, really, I keep hearing other blogs tell me black is too harsh once you start aging) but I’ve struggled trying to upgrade my wardrobe with other neutrals (and on a tight budget). And you’ve laid out the reasons why- other neutrals don’t hold up as well, don’t play as well together and show every little stain and wrinkle. I was trying to go with charcoal gray but I caught myself in the mirror one day and realized that has got to be one of the most unflattering colors on aging skin in the world. Back to black.

    Reply
  26. Katy M says

    September 19, 2012 at 12:33 pm

    Amen! I once wore a black suit (Banana Republic) to an interview, I got a second interview, so I wore my brown suit (Kohl’s), not wanting to wear the same suit twice (I only had two). I think I would have gotten the job had I not worn that cheap brown suit to the second interview and would have been better off wearing the black one twice with different shoes, shirt and accessories. You make some great points on the versatility of black!

    Reply
  27. Patti says

    September 19, 2012 at 12:07 pm

    Very well said and explained! Here in NY, it’s become a cliche that we always wear black. We wear it not only because of all the reasons you stated, but NY is a dirty city! I love it, but it’s dirty! Try taking the subway in white pants. Black is king!

    Reply
    • Marina Doshkevich says

      October 16, 2014 at 2:18 pm

      I wear white jeans all the time, and not much happens. I suppose one day i will sit on some wet pain…but if I get a bit of dirt on them, so what? I own bleach. I love wearing black, but I like wearing white too.

      Reply
  28. Ashley // Dramatis Personae says

    September 19, 2012 at 11:25 am

    Reading “black matches black” made me laugh, because in theatre, I often hear the backstage crew complain about how much their blacks DON’T match. It makes me wonder if that’s a theatre thing or if there are other fields where people complain about their blacks not matching as well….

    Reply
    • Allie at Wardrobe Oxygen says

      September 19, 2012 at 11:32 am

      I bet it’s due to the lighting on stage, which will pick up every green tint, pill, and speck of dust on black. 🙂 I know I worked in cosmetics where I had to wear all black and loved how if it was in a similar fabric (matte jersey, poly blend, silk) it usually matched decently well even if from different retailers and years.

      Reply
      • Ashley // Dramatis Personae says

        September 19, 2012 at 2:21 pm

        This is the people in blacks backstage though! Not the ones on stage! It always cracks me up. One Tech Director I knew broke down her backstage blacks in to “good, okay, and faded” blacks 😉

        Reply
    • akay says

      April 16, 2013 at 6:03 pm

      artists. there are many many different blacks. but in clothes, i get it.

      Reply
    • Martine says

      July 21, 2016 at 10:33 pm

      Blacks do not match each other, neither do whites. I happen to think that is OK. I don’t mind wearing a more blue black with a more black,black. For the same reason, not all blacks are flattering on everyone.

      Reply
  29. lexalemmy says

    September 19, 2012 at 11:08 am

    Yes for black with travelling! I have an eight day business trip every May and I bring: 1 black skirt, 1 black pair of pants and one black dress. (And a few other pieces, but these are the foundations.) I then rotate blazers, tops and shells depending on the event and meeting. No one notices if you wear the same basic black pair of pants three times in an 8 day span and it prevents having to pack a mondo bag.

    Reply
  30. N. L. says

    September 19, 2012 at 11:05 am

    I’ve worn black all my life and wil never stop. It’s very versatile and black can be powerful and classy too.

    Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Next Post >

Personal Style, Inspiration, Jealousy, and Knowing Yourself

Since 2005, Wardrobe Oxygen has offered real-life style advice for grown-ass women. With years of experience as an apparel visual merchandiser and personal shopper, Alison Gary provides advice on how to achieve personal style no matter your age, size, or budget.

Archives

Search Wardrobe Oxygen:

Categories

  • Fashion
  • Beauty
  • Lifestyle
  • Health & Wellness
  • Outfits

instagram

Follow @wardrobe_oxygen

wardrobe_oxygen

View

Sep 26

Open
Scenes from a Friday night…

We started at @littleblackbirddc a new wine bar in Cleveland Park where we had great food, drink, and conversation into the evening. We then headed down the street to @atomicbilliards for a whole different experience and to keep the conversation going. I treasure my friendships with @sylviacolella (who had a birthday recently), @districtofchic, and @blonde_inthedistrict they’re the real deal 🥰

My dress is @adamlippes borrowed via @renttherunway and Cheetos with Sauvignon Blanc is a really fun pairing!

wardrobe_oxygen

View

Sep 23

Open
Night and day…

Met three dear friends for an early dinner that went on until after the sun set. Great food and conversation with some great women!

The dress is @adamlippes and I borrowed it from @renttherunway. The bag is @jcrew and a splurge but I regretted not buying it the last time they offered this bag and this color is SO me. I mean, look how great it is with these many years old suede heeled sandals? Meant to be!

This color combination makes me so happy, and this dress was comfy even after a decadent meal. We all deserve to experience comfort and joy with our wardrobes! 💛🩷

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4jnDf #ltkplussize #ltkmidsize #ltkover40 #midsizestyle #genxstyle #over40style

wardrobe_oxygen

View

Sep 21

Open
If @thechicks are in town you can bet @debbiefaye78 and I will be there! So when we heard they were coming to @merriweatherpp we were so excited. And their concert did not disappoint. As always, a phenomenal show! If The Chicks come to your neck of the woods I highly recommend you go!

Okay I know you want to know about what we’re wearing! 

My sister’s caftan is from @anthropologie (bought this summer so maybe you can find on resale sites).

I’m wearing a @bananarepublic dress also from this summer with the @universalstandard denim chore jacket and a hat I got from a @madewell collab a year or so ago. I glammed it up with some gold chains and gold drop earrings, but kept it comfy for a night of standing and dancing with @birkenstock sandals.

This was my first big outing since my eye surgery, and with a pocketful of eye drops I felt good (and grateful we splurged for good seats!).

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4jcBL #ltkmidsize #ltkover40 #midsizestyle #genxstyle #usinthewild #concertstyle

wardrobe_oxygen

View

Sep 19

Open
If I close my eyes you can’t tell one is still bloodshot 😜

Still recovering from my eye surgery but feeling more myself. Getting dolled up helps me feel me. Bright colors and bold jewelry have been signature Alison since I was a kid! 

Sweater: @favorite.daughter 
Earrings: Amazon
Necklace: @_jennybird (old)
Ring: @realmfinejewelry 
Bra: @lovebravissimo 
Lipstick: @glossier 
Pins as “cufflinks”: vintage

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4j0LM #ltkmidsize #midsizestyle #over40style #ltkover40 #genxstyle

wardrobe_oxygen

View

Sep 11

Open
Happy gotcha day, Oscar! Four years ago he came into our life and we are so happy to have in our family!

Oscar was a rescue and came with some… quirks. Over the years we have come to understand him and he has come to trust us. He’s a diva, a snuggler, he could play catch for hours, and he’s my husband’s shadow. 

We’ve never had a small breed dog before and it’s a whole different experience. But we adore Oscar and couldn’t imagine our life without him! Thank you for coming into our life Oskie McGoskie! 🐾❤️

wardrobe_oxygen

View

Sep 8

Open
I can see clearly now…

Actually I can’t, but things after my retina surgery are much improved! My next appointment is in a month and I’m cleared to get back into the world (with some restrictions to protect my eye).

With a sclera buckle, it changes your eye shape and now I am nearsighted again (I had lasik a few years ago). Once the eye is stabilized I can get glasses or contacts but until then I’m 20/20 in one eye and right now 20/60 in the other. But the eye is healing beautifully and I feel positive!

And I could see clearly enough to fall for this poppy-colored cotton jumpsuit from @pistoladenim. It comes in a few colors but this one is my favorite. I went with XL (im@a 14, sometimes 16) and likely could have sized down but I enjoy the relaxed fit and the drawstring waistband to create shape. And hello zipper closure making it super easy to get on and off!

My husband took this photo right after my eye appointment, I think it reflects my positive attitude and feeling of hope! 🧡

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4idXm

wardrobe_oxygen

View

Sep 5

Open
I’ll be a bit quiet on here and other channels because I had eye (retinal) surgery this past weekend. I was having what I thought were ocular migraines but come to find out I was experiencing lattice degeneration, which is thinning/holes in the retina. I had surgery Saturday for my right eye and later on they’ll work on the left eye, which isn’t as bad and can be remedied by laser, in office.

I share not because I’m Mrs. Frizzle meets Iris Apfel as I recuperate at home, but because this whole thing has been a lesson on trusting my gut. And I want to remind you to do the same.

As we get older our bodies can feel like strangers. Things are constantly changing and it’s easy to just assume your annual physical will catch anything wrong. But if you slow down and listen to your body you’ll know when things are just a sign of aging and life and what seems unusual. That nagging issue may be something more serious.

And if you’re seeing flashing lights, floaters, spiderwebs or other odd eye things get checked out ASAP. It may be nothing but take it from me, it may actually be something. ❤️

Okay, going back to my big sunglasses caftan recuperation life!

wardrobe_oxygen

View

Aug 30

Open
Ladies who lunch…

While in Savannah, I made sure to get lunch reservations for me and E at @theoldepinkhouse she loves the color pink, historic homes, and ghost stories so it was a perfect choice! 

Built in 1789 on Reynolds Square, there are stories of guests seeing ghosts, cutlery and wine bottles moving along with an elegant and truly delicious dining. 

While we didn’t see any apparitions, we did have a lovely lunch with impeccable service and after toured all floors of the home. I highly recommend a visit if you’re visiting Savannah!

My dress is from @cosstores (no longer available); hat is @furtalk and bag is @talbotsofficial (no longer available).

wardrobe_oxygen

View

Aug 29

Open
Scenes from a week in Savannah… 

The three of us (and our dog Oscar!) had a warm and humid but wonderful time exploring Savannah, Georgia earlier this month. Our daughter visited this gorgeous city last summer with her @girlscouts troop but wanted to return to experience more. We let her choose our adventures and play your guide and it was awesome. We cannot wait to visit again, though next time it won’t be August 🥵

For more of our trip check the “Savannah” highlight on my profile page!

wardrobe_oxygen

View

Aug 28

Open
Stripes are always right…

Y’all know I love stripes and when @universalstandard came out with their Breton-stripe dresses and tops I HAD to try them! As expected, the quality is stellar, the fit boosts my confidence, and I appreciate the range of colors (5 different stripes to choose from) and sizes (00-50). For reference, I’m wearing XS but preferred S for the top and I usually wear a 14 or XL in other brands.

The tote is @able and it’s a soft yet durable leather that just looks better with time. This color (cognac) is one that transitions nicely from summer to fall. 

Follow my shop @wardrobe_oxygen on the @shop.LTK app to shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content!
https://liketk.it/4hkEF 

#usinthewild #bretonstripes #midsizestyle #midsizefashion #size14 #over40style

Info

  • About
  • Contact
  • Advertise
  • Exclusive Promo Codes

join the community

On the Blog

  • Capsule Wardrobes
  • Curly Hair
  • Plus Size Fashion
  • Perimenopause
  • Privacy Policy
  • Cookie Policy
  • Disclosure

Copyright © 2023 Wardrobe Oxygen · Theme by 17th Avenue