The on-trend ‘90s redux continues. I can’t remember a period when black footwear was more popular than it was in the mid to late ‘90s. I suspect that’s why we’re seeing a lot of black footwear ground the look of outfits at the moment. Black footwear is particularly popular with skirts right now. And it is often finishing off a look whether the outfit has black in it or not.
This collection shows some examples.
I think it’s easier on the eyes when black footwear is worn in an outfit where the black is repeated somewhere else in the combination. The repetition of the black allows the eye to rest, thereby creating visual harmony, which pulls the look together. The black can be repeated in an item of clothing, in a pattern, accessory, eyewear, or the wearer’s hair.
On to four outfit examples.
1. Dark Hair and Black Footwear
An olive flared midi skirt is combined with a fluid V-neck cream sweater that’s worn out in a relaxed way. Flat black riding boots match the model’s black bouncy locks to create a bookended effect. A light blue crossbody bag makes a mismatched statement.
2. Black Accessories and Footwear
A denim shirt is tucked into a red pleather pencil skirt. The separates are graced with a black complement. The black bag matches the grommet belt and two-toned shoes. You might prefer the look with solid black shoes. Personally, I like the crisp white accent that adds unexpected visual interest.
3. Black Slogan and Footwear
A Summery white flared cotton skirt is combined with a welted mustard slogan sweatshirt. The look is completed with black studded oxfords. The black shoes match the black writing in the top. The wearer’s hair, while not black, is sufficiently dark to balance the heaviness of the black shoes against the soft and light integrity of the skirt. The shoes add a hard-edged dramatic touch, which might not be your cup of tea. To my eye, it works.
4. Black Pattern and Footwear
This patterned two-piece dress, and co-ord, is made up of black and dark blue. The caged and stacked high heel sandals match the black in the pattern. I see a short black jacket, or long black coat go over the top, and a cognac bag to match the cascading curls of the wearer. Add jewellery, eyewear, and watch as desired.
I don’t wear black clothing, accessories, or footwear, and I don’t have dark hair. But I have many clients and friends who do, and black footwear is frequently an essential in their wardrobes. Black shoes work well in a wardrobe where there is a fair amount of black in the palette. Especially when the wearer has black, salt and pepper, or very dark brown hair. If black shoes work for you, milk it.
