https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ask-angie-and-everybody-avoiding-all-black-in-winter Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Sat, 25 Apr 2026 13:05:23 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ask-angie-and-everybody-avoiding-all-black-in-winter#post-1068227 Wed, 30 Oct 2013 10:19:47 +0000 gryffin 1068227@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Sveta - I am really empathize with your discomfort with wearing a certain color.&nbsp; I am actually your opposite.&nbsp; After years of trying to have a variety of color in my wardrobe, I realized this was not making me happy.&nbsp;&nbsp;So I&nbsp;have chosen to limit my palate to black with shades of gray, white and silver.&nbsp; This feels authentic to me.&nbsp; I really admire you pushing your comfort barriers.&nbsp; I hope you enjoy the coat, however you style it.&nbsp; I'd be interested to know how you feel after you've worn it for awhile, whether you "embrace" the darkness or you or if you find it difficult.&nbsp; Either way, I think it will help you decide where your your comfort zone truly is and help you direct your future purchases.&nbsp; Best of luck and I really hope you enjoy wearing the coat!! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ask-angie-and-everybody-avoiding-all-black-in-winter#post-1067904 Wed, 30 Oct 2013 01:22:12 +0000 Sveta 1067904@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I think I have to explain that I have a very tricky relationship with black. Until 3 years ago I had a couple of black bottoms and that was it. I thought that as a warm colored person black is my worst color so I stuck with&nbsp;brown.Since joining YLF I rethought our relationship with black especially when I accidentally dyed my hair almost jet black and surprisingly it suited me. This fact broke my previous theory about black being my worst color - but it is still not my best. I think the main thing is psychological though:too much black just does not make me happy. Did you see&nbsp;Angie's remark to get black booties? This is because I have a weird mental block about black footwear. Last year she made me to get black tall boots - the only black option in my wardrobe! The same with black bags: I never owned a single black bag! I just don't get drawn to bags and footwear in black, I am that weird.<br />But Suz is right: this is not the only coat I have so I don't have to wear it daily until I become sick of the black I just was avoiding a black coat all my life so it is quite a step for me now.<br />As for serviceability of black: I don't &nbsp;find it more so than other dark colors. I have cobalt and dark purple coats and they go&nbsp;practically with all my bottoms and footwear (until I got the cobalt trousers).<br />As I told Suz in the store: if that coat was ink blue I would not hesitate a second! Let's see how I can live with black...I can wear it no problem: the question is will it make me happy?</p> <p>Sooo, the challenge is on now: I need to make myself happy to wear black coat in winter! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ask-angie-and-everybody-avoiding-all-black-in-winter#post-1067774 Wed, 30 Oct 2013 00:00:40 +0000 cheryle (Dianthus) 1067774@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Suz, I live in an even worse climate than yours and although I love color, I don't mind doing black outerwear because I consider it to be fairly serviceable.&nbsp; It keeps me from freezing to death.&nbsp; I inject color into my daily wear and my booties.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ask-angie-and-everybody-avoiding-all-black-in-winter#post-1067756 Tue, 29 Oct 2013 23:36:07 +0000 Suz 1067756@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Sveta looks amazing in this coat -- no question. But live in a climate like ours and don't you start to crave colour partway through the winter? I certainly do. My soul literally thirsts for it!&nbsp;</p> <p>And while I love a well executed all-black look as much as the next person, I also get bored by the sea of black around me on the streets and transit system.&nbsp;</p> <p>Fortunately, Sveta isn't limited to one coat! &nbsp;:-)&nbsp;</p> <p> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ask-angie-and-everybody-avoiding-all-black-in-winter#post-1067753 Tue, 29 Oct 2013 23:31:27 +0000 unfrumped 1067753@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I think even though it is a long black coat,&nbsp; the first thing people see and are drawn to are your dramatic features and whatever you are wearing near your face.&nbsp;Then, since it is a&nbsp;fabulous coat at that, that trumps the black, and it doesn't look like a drab or soul-sucking black coat. Since it is outerwear, then if you are likely to be wearing your handbag or tote with it, that is another major item (unless your favorite bag is currently black!). I think scarf and bag will do it just fine. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ask-angie-and-everybody-avoiding-all-black-in-winter#post-1067742 Tue, 29 Oct 2013 23:24:01 +0000 Makrame 1067742@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I find that I like (mostly) black in winter because I don't have to spend as much time cursing the salt and grime when I am wearing black (well, some of the salt stains look quite striking on the black backdrop, which can be annoying too). &nbsp;I have a black softshell winter coat and a black puffer + black Sorel boots - as long as I add bright scarves, I am OK. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ask-angie-and-everybody-avoiding-all-black-in-winter#post-1067727 Tue, 29 Oct 2013 23:01:35 +0000 cheryle (Dianthus) 1067727@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I like black too and think a long tailored black coat with sleek black boots is an extremely elegant look. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ask-angie-and-everybody-avoiding-all-black-in-winter#post-1067708 Tue, 29 Oct 2013 22:30:35 +0000 gryffin 1067708@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Reaching out to Catnip and Zapotee.&nbsp; May I shyly agree that I am a huge fan of all black.&nbsp;&nbsp; Black creates the backdrop, the contrast, and the setting&nbsp;to show case you.&nbsp; You become the jewel that black displays so you have to be comfortable with that.&nbsp; Although some people's coloring lends itself to another "dark" shade, you look brilliant in black.&nbsp; Of course, it's just as good a backdrop for wonderful accessories.&nbsp;&nbsp; You might also consider adding brooches to the coat if you want to add interest and sparkle.&nbsp; If you want a dramatic vintage look what about trying a gorgeous silk coat shawl.&nbsp; Haven't seen those in awhile so maybe they are due for a return!!&nbsp; You really look wonderful in the coat but the only important thing is that you love it.&nbsp; What does your heart tell you? </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ask-angie-and-everybody-avoiding-all-black-in-winter#post-1067678 Tue, 29 Oct 2013 22:15:06 +0000 Sveta 1067678@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Zap, I knew you would say that! You do rock black like nobody I know and look amazing in it - I? Not so much...so colorful scarf it is! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ask-angie-and-everybody-avoiding-all-black-in-winter#post-1067674 Tue, 29 Oct 2013 22:13:53 +0000 Anonymous 1067674@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>You say "all black" like it is a bad thing, says the New Yorker. I actually think that all black ensemble with this coat would be superb with your coloring. The easiest thing to do is to add a scarf, if you don't want so much black near your face. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ask-angie-and-everybody-avoiding-all-black-in-winter#post-1067665 Tue, 29 Oct 2013 22:09:46 +0000 Sveta 1067665@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I think it may be not a problem of how I look in black but more how I feel in it. It is all in my head, you know! :-)<br />In my climate I am going to wear the coat closed most of the time so whatever colors I wear under it won't be really visible. It looks like I have to replenish my scarf and hat collection for winter which is seriously lacking now. I think I will add one cream (plain or patterned with grey or black) and one solid in a bright color but I cannot decide which would work best for me...<br />Oh those cobalt trousers! They made me&nbsp; buy a black coat first, then look for black booties and now to hunt for accessories for that black coat. Talk about clothes which boss you around! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ask-angie-and-everybody-avoiding-all-black-in-winter#post-1067150 Tue, 29 Oct 2013 14:44:14 +0000 ironkurtin 1067150@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I love black. &nbsp;I find mixing it with gray or bright accessories are all I need to keep me from feeling like the angel of death. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ask-angie-and-everybody-avoiding-all-black-in-winter#post-1067146 Tue, 29 Oct 2013 14:41:48 +0000 Day Vies 1067146@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Fascinating discussion. I have been moving away from the all black winter look myself mostly because I want to push myself. I am currently exploring colored neutrals for winter. My dress wool winter coat is chocolate brown. I do tend to change up the accessories quite a bit especially the hats. as scarves don't really show much because it buttons all the way up to my chin. The caveat is when it get REALLY cold (wind chills&nbsp;hovering around zero)&nbsp;I have to result to the gear to be warm (gear meaning less streamlined, more functional and utilitarian) and even those coats are not black (plum and silver respectively). </p> <p>I agree with Suz you have to figure out how much black you are comfortable with and roll with that. I just know by February I am really sick of black and need color to survive happily. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ask-angie-and-everybody-avoiding-all-black-in-winter#post-1067145 Tue, 29 Oct 2013 14:41:25 +0000 Ingunn 1067145@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I think you could do a very elegant almost all black ensemble, Sveta. I wouldn't worry too much if I were you. The black booties will find you, and meanwhile, you obviously can do black and brown. In fact, I love that combination and find it very chic. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ask-angie-and-everybody-avoiding-all-black-in-winter#post-1067130 Tue, 29 Oct 2013 14:31:30 +0000 Irene 1067130@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I actually like the look of a black coat + black skinnies + black tall boots + black bag and a colored scarf, possibly in a neutral color like ivory or grey. It looks SO sharp and streamlined, I don't know, elegant. I don't wear a hat or gloves, but would possibly wear them in a neutral color too. (I would wear a colored top underneath, of course)</p> <p>But I understand how it might feel like too black for you. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ask-angie-and-everybody-avoiding-all-black-in-winter#post-1067040 Tue, 29 Oct 2013 13:30:02 +0000 Lisa 1067040@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I like Thistle's idea to sport all colored accessories to break up the black, especially if it is&nbsp;a day you are wearing black trousers and footwear with your black coat. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ask-angie-and-everybody-avoiding-all-black-in-winter#post-1066802 Tue, 29 Oct 2013 04:10:17 +0000 Catnip 1066802@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Hi Sveta,</p> <p>I'm new here and am trying to ask this question in the most diplomatic manner possible.&nbsp; Why is&nbsp;all or mostly&nbsp;black too much black?&nbsp; Here in New York City, where I live, we will wear a black coat, black pants, black bag, scarf and shoes, and then add black sunglasses just to make sure everyone gets the point.&nbsp; Last Sunday's New York Times had a video by Bill Cunningham showing the all black look on the streets of Paris... I think during their fashion week.</p> <p>Don't misunderstand.&nbsp; I almost never wear all black myself.&nbsp; Tonight I went to the opera and wore all black except for a ruby red sweater and ivory pearls.&nbsp; I always add another bright color to an all black look.&nbsp; </p> <p>You are stunning and chic, and I think mostly black, possibly with your cobalt trousers, would look absolutely wonderful on you.&nbsp; Yes, you may need black booties, as Angie says.&nbsp; Why not?&nbsp; And you may just want to add black sunglasses... just joking!</p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ask-angie-and-everybody-avoiding-all-black-in-winter#post-1066747 Tue, 29 Oct 2013 02:56:37 +0000 Caro in Oz 1066747@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Agreeing with Gaylene &amp; BA - look on the coat as a canvas - all things are possible SO glad you kept it. It looks fantastic on you. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ask-angie-and-everybody-avoiding-all-black-in-winter#post-1066746 Tue, 29 Oct 2013 02:54:52 +0000 Beth Ann 1066746@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I like to pair turquoise, teal, and purple with my dark coats in winter.&nbsp; I find I like the variety of colors I can use:&nbsp; something that wouldn't be possible with many more colorful coats. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ask-angie-and-everybody-avoiding-all-black-in-winter#post-1066744 Tue, 29 Oct 2013 02:52:08 +0000 Gaylene 1066744@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I've worn black coats all my life in winter and never felt dispirited. Colorful scarves in gorgeous textures and designs that make a statement are the best way I know to avoid that "boring black coat" syndrome. And the best part is you get to change the palette every day--Monday in chrome yellow, Tuesday in a red tartan, Wednesday in swaths of sapphire-blue cashmere, Thursday in wannabe Hermès orange/blue silk, and Friday in a textured black and white hounds tooth.</p> <p>Look at your black coat as a canvas and paint it in whatever color your mood dictates on any given day. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ask-angie-and-everybody-avoiding-all-black-in-winter#post-1066704 Tue, 29 Oct 2013 02:17:58 +0000 Sveta 1066704@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Suz, you are right of course. I envision this coat with my plaid grey, cobalt and cream trousers mostly - I can leave off the black ones for my cobalt and purple coat.<br />Thistle, this is a great idea, i need to decide on the color and start collecting: right now they are all different colors! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ask-angie-and-everybody-avoiding-all-black-in-winter#post-1066702 Tue, 29 Oct 2013 02:14:37 +0000 Sveta 1066702@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Angie, please do not rub it in about the black booties! Before they were everywhere and it was hard to find non-black ones. Now when i want black I have pretty hard time finding them in my size and style I want.<br />BTW I have ordered those Vaneli booties in brown as it was the only color available in my size and wide width. Looks like I got the last pair at Nordstrom in this size because it is gone now. I have already tried them in regulat width and my toes felt pinched. I hope wide width will help - fingers crossed!<br />If they work out and I cannot make brown to work for me I may dye them black or ink blue...<br />Need some thinking about which colors for scarf, hat and gloves. I have burgundy gloves and purple beret - hope they work in a pinch with the black coat until I find something else. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ask-angie-and-everybody-avoiding-all-black-in-winter#post-1066693 Tue, 29 Oct 2013 02:10:40 +0000 Suz 1066693@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>A question after my heart. Even though my pea coat is colour blocked ink and black, when I wear black boots, black pants or skirt, black tights, I feel I might as well be wearing all black! And it is awfully difficult to avoid the black footwear in winter, not to mention the dark trousers.&nbsp;</p> <p>When you ask "is it enough to have non-black scarf, gloves, hat, and bag," the question really should be: Is it enough for <b>you</b>? Will your spirit sink under the weight of the black or soar at its drama and luxury?&nbsp;And only time will tell. </p> <p>For myself, I think you will feel fine with your touches of colour&nbsp;-- considering that this is <b>not your only coat.&nbsp;</b>If it were your only coat, I think you'd get bored, depressed, or annoyed about that.&nbsp;</p> <p>Consider also that you'll&nbsp;wear this coat primarily with items like your cobalt trousers (not "all black" there!) or longer dresses and skirts. Or trousers that are not black .So right away we will be getting glimpses of non black besides your scarf and bag.&nbsp;</p> <p>And also, you won't be wearing that coat every day. So you get to rotate for the fun of it (and colour).&nbsp;</p> <p>I have some similar questions about how to bring the light in, in winter. You do this incredibly well, but for some reason I am struggling and need some assistance.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ask-angie-and-everybody-avoiding-all-black-in-winter#post-1066690 Tue, 29 Oct 2013 02:08:57 +0000 Thistle 1066690@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I have seen some ladies here do black jackets and boots with all teal accessories or all magenta accessories (hat, scarf, gloves, bag, tote) and it looks so sharp! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ask-angie-and-everybody-avoiding-all-black-in-winter#post-1066687 Tue, 29 Oct 2013 02:06:36 +0000 Angie 1066687@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I do think you need black booties, just to be my&nbsp;big and bossy self all over again.</p> <p>YES. You nailed it. I'd throw in non-black trousers and jackets to wear under the coat too.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/ask-angie-and-everybody-avoiding-all-black-in-winter#post-1066682 Tue, 29 Oct 2013 02:03:23 +0000 Sveta 1066682@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>So now when I own a black winter coat I am wondering how to avoid all black outfit in winter because my winter boots are black too. Is it enough to have non-black scarf, gloves, hat&nbsp;and bag? Avoid wearing this coat with black trousers?&nbsp;I really hope I can avoid shopping for non-black winter boots right now..&nbsp; </p>