Fashion

What do I wear with this?

I was asked to an impromptu wedding this past weekend with only a few days notice. And after deciding if we should go or not (we said yes) I was faced with a dilemma many girls can relate to...what to wear when you have no time to shop. I'm beginning to realize that I should have a separate entry on this altogether but for the time being, suffice it to say, you should always have at least three great dresses hanging in your closet for times like this.

I do. And though mine happen to all be black I really do love them. I believe that when it comes to trustworthy options (through thick or thin waistlines and varying temperatures) these three are my answers. So I continually pull them out on various occasions. First off, yes it's ok to wear black to a wedding. Honestly, I'd rather tell girls to do that then don some sad floral dress with disappointing heels. At least with black you have options--colored pumps, fancy jewels, smashing clutch's. So please don't hesitate there.

What I do believe is a matter of importance--and something this entry is solely devoted to--are all the trimmings. When you wear black you're virtually a blank canvas so what you put with it takes center stage.

My perfect ensemble begins with a great pair of earrings. How about these graphic hearts by Betsy Johnson? Neutral enough they'll support any gold necklace (this one from Urban Outfitters is fantastic) especially if it's made out of lucite, black and gold. Following the jewelry is the bag. I love options so I always keep a few metallics on hand along with a nice, simple black clutch. This one from Etsy is fun and cheap!

Moving on from there come the shoes. You can never go wrong with something in gold, especially when it comes woven and textured. But if that's too flashy opt for something soft and sleek. I can't say enough about these taupe satin slingbacks from our favorite shoe king, Christian Louboutin. You can wear them alone in the summer or with tights in the winter.

Whether it's shoes, handbags, jewelry or the dress, the most important thing is that you buy something that'll last longer than a night. Having closet staples is important, but having ones you like to wear is even better.

Black Out

I was catching up on my trend newsletters when a fashion survey caught my eye. Black, it seems, has been rated the country’s favorite clothing color. Hmm…no surprise there. On average, those surveyed (all women) said they had at least three pairs of black pants, one pair of black jeans, two black dresses, six black sweaters, 12 black tops and 12 pairs of black shoes. The article went on to suggest that on average, black makes up nearly 40% of everyone’s wardrobe. Could this be, I wondered, as I took stock of my stuff. Riffling through my clothing, I discovered on average, about 25% of my stuff was black. Hmmm…not the exact number but interesting still. I admit I love black for those quick day-to-day needs or events that require a more singular sophistication but in recent years I’ve dabbled in more eclectic designs with colorful patterns and hues.

So I guess I’m not in the group of aforementioned women but if I was into black, at least 40% of me, then I’d certainly go for these snazzy pieces.

A great black bag. Ok, I do have a few of these (er, at least 10)! Yikes, I know. But a girl can never have enough -- especially when they’re available in so many sizes and styles. At the top of my list is the always-practical black tote. For work or weekends, heck for everyday junk, it disguises your stuff with one complement look. My current favorite: This extremely large Maria Bonita Extra bag which could house anything from an second set of clothes to a weeks worth of snacks. Ok, kidding on the last one. Just below the tote of my list of needs -- a small black clutch. I love mine, which I bought on a whim from Neiman’s and have used more often than any other evening bag. Since that’s long gone instead I suggest this Alexis Hudson Caesar clutch. The smart square style is reminiscent of a vintage bag but the gold deadbolt closure gives it a nice modern edge.

A suave black jacket. You thought I’d say dress, right? In previous blogs I’ve given a ton of great black dress ideas so I think -- even though it’s important -- I’ll leave out that obvious nod just this once. A jacket is vital any time of the year especially when it’s done in a chic cut and fabric. I searched and searched and this little ditty, by Theory called Kisa, is my favorite. Part dressy, part casual the fitted shape is perfect with jeans or a more serious work skirt. And a dual-purpose buy is an ideal way to justify the price.

The perfect black flat. Now this is essential. I’ve worn my black flats until they no longer resemble a shoe, rather a mound of leather. My current top brand is Loeffler Randall. Their styles are fantastic! Check out these patent leather sling backs. Oh, pure joy! Perfect with skirts, jeans and drainpipe pants, they’re an ideal addition to your black balanced closet. Word of warning, if you buy from them, go down half a size. Happy shopping.