Black is Back

Although there may be a little splash of color at a retail store near you this coming season, you are far more likely to be seeing lots of black. When most people think of the “color” black, they think of a multi toned, rather boring shade, but that thought couldn’t be farther from the truth. Black can be sensual in satin, sizzling in suede, or simplistic in subtle hints of lace.

Most women love black because they think that the shade is very slimming. Well, this is only partly true. Usually black is slimming if it is done right. For example, a little black dress, or a black silk blazer will help you to slim down, but if you start adding layer upon layer of black you will only achieve a bulky look. Aside from the obvious designer black frocks that are abundant this season, here are a few glimpses into the every day retail world, and what they have to offer you in the way of black this season.

This review will cover two dress makers that can be a tad pricey, but when you are going to a huge event or have a special dinner, you’ll want to head to either BCBG or Betsey Johnson. To start off, let’s look at Betsey Johnson’s “Taffeta Bustle Dress” ($300). This dress is the epitome of how black can be very flirty, while at the same time being very sexy. The frill at the bottom of the skit perfectly offsets the semi-form fitting dress. Don’t overlook the corset top to this strapless beauty. Any dress with a corset top is your best friend, so if you have an event coming up, you will want to consider this perfect black dress.

For a classic design that can easily turn from day to night, look to the ever fabulous BCBG, and in particularly, the “Gradual Striped Jersey Day Dress” ($160). Even though the name of the dress evokes thoughts of birthday parties and sunshine, don’t let this timeless sundress fool you. Make a splash by adding a strand of pearls to this dress and a shiny red pump, and watch it turn from innocent day dress into vintage vixen. This dress does black with a classic pinstripe running through it, and it is made from jersey, which fits almost any form perfectly. This is an all around versatile dress that you will want to have in your closet for any occasion.

There are simply a ton of black dresses out there, but when you look for the perfect one, remember the Betsey Johnson frill, and the BCBG classic look. You don’t have to purchase one of these gowns, but if you look for something similar you can pull off a desired designer look for a lot less.

Labels: black, fashion trends, style