Black-out means wearing black from head to toe, or almost wearing black from head to toe. I have some clients who like to dress this way in the Spring and Summer because they simply LOVE to wear black. In the Summer months, you can showcase skin wearing black-out, which reduces the expanse of black clothing on the body. You can also add dark grey, navy, black lace, shiny textures, flouncy silhouettes and metallics to the outfit to soften and brighten the vibe.
The outfit on the left is warm weather black-out with a touch of grey. The outfit on the right is Summer black-out all the way. Personally, I’d have preferred the outfit on the right with metallic sandals and clutch. I’d have added white pearls to the outfit on the left to brighten things up.
There are countless ways to wear Spring and Summer black-out. To my eye, black-out looks best when there’s a range of textures and some movement in the outfit. That way the black looks less flat and more alive. Or even better, when you add hints of metallic and/or dark blue. Here are three ensembles to get the creative juices flowing. Note: each of the ensembles can be remixed with any of the pairs of shoes and either bag. The textured topper can be worn across all three looks.
Wide Crops & Silk Top
Combine a pair of black wide cropped pants, culottes or jeans with a silky black top to create textural interest in the outfit. The shine of the black top makes a big difference. A silky cami layered over a black tee is a fun way to go. Finish off the look with metallic, navy or black footwear and bag. It’s by no means essential, but matching the bag with the footwear is an easy way to pull together your look.
Dress & Textured Topper
Combine a black knitted or woven dress with a textured or patterned black and charcoal grey or navy topper. Finish off the look with metallic, navy or black footwear and bag. By all means wear flats with a dress. WHY NOT?
Flared Crops & Flouncy Lace
Combine a pair of trendy bottoms like black flared crops with a flouncy black top that has lace detailing. The flounces add movement to the outfit, which prevents the all-black vibe from looking lifeless. The lace adds textural interest. Finish off the look with metallic, navy or black footwear and bag. Navy nail polish is fun with the look. Tying a neckerchief to your bag is another way to go. Add jewellery, eyewear and watch as desired.
