https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/navel-gaze-post---why-i-am-judiciously-re-embracing-black Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Thu, 23 Apr 2026 09:34:44 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/navel-gaze-post---why-i-am-judiciously-re-embracing-black#post-1959989 Thu, 27 Sep 2018 12:38:19 +0000 RobinF 1959989@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I love black and always have a base of it in my wardrobe. I agree that for me navy is a color and as hard as I try to use it as a neutral it just doesn't work for me. So black is my dark neutral of choice. I love your black and blue outfit so it definitely isn't a bad direction for you. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/navel-gaze-post---why-i-am-judiciously-re-embracing-black#post-1959978 Thu, 27 Sep 2018 12:06:33 +0000 Aquamarine 1959978@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Nodding along with you. I cannot get rid of black, and have decided I don’t really want to. Why fight it? </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/navel-gaze-post---why-i-am-judiciously-re-embracing-black#post-1959969 Thu, 27 Sep 2018 11:01:10 +0000 Helena 1959969@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thanks everyone!!<br /> Mainelady, your comments had me smiling ... My family is Irish; we've had many hilarious family discussions about funeral plans, plots, etc (it's a cultural thing) ... So I am very comfortable with your comments and they don't seem morbid at all lol!! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/navel-gaze-post---why-i-am-judiciously-re-embracing-black#post-1959952 Thu, 27 Sep 2018 09:40:33 +0000 Anonymous 1959952@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>No need to apologize at all! I agree navy is definitely a color for me too, and i end up pairing it with black to tone down the coolness. And navy clothes seem to be usually in very classic styles, whereas black is used across styles (formal, edgy, etc). </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/navel-gaze-post---why-i-am-judiciously-re-embracing-black#post-1959950 Thu, 27 Sep 2018 09:34:55 +0000 Mainelady 1959950@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Torontogirl, your well thought out reasons for adding black back into your wardrobe make perfect sense. Your comment about leather goods had me nodding my head in agreeement. A black turtleneck can be found across all price points, but leather boots and bags are going to come at a certain cost. When working within a budget, it is important to spend wisely and to have options when it is time to replace an item.<br /> I am a fan of black. I always have been. I like it on me (and I need to be a bit careful with my lighter hair) and I like it on others. To my eye it always reads as classic and sophisticated. I have joked that when I pass and a celebration of life is planned, I want every one to wear black (and bling and sassy shoes). Not because they are in mourning, but because those things made me happy. Gosh I hope that comment doesn’t read as too morbid.....! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/navel-gaze-post---why-i-am-judiciously-re-embracing-black#post-1959946 Thu, 27 Sep 2018 08:58:14 +0000 Jessikams 1959946@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>You make a really good point about leather goods. I just recently had the experience of “finally” completing my set/complement in a particular beige- and then the bag developed a hole. Grrr. Now it will be so difficult to find the missing piece to replace it. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/navel-gaze-post---why-i-am-judiciously-re-embracing-black#post-1959924 Thu, 27 Sep 2018 03:36:05 +0000 Jaime 1959924@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I love white with black, and certainly rely on black shoes and black bags with many outfits. Your attitude makes sense! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/navel-gaze-post---why-i-am-judiciously-re-embracing-black#post-1959918 Thu, 27 Sep 2018 02:35:05 +0000 jussie 1959918@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I’ve always held on to a certain amount of black- it has many, many useful qualities! And whether it looks draining or not seems to depend on the particular fabric imho.<br /> I think when it’s paired with hot pink it’s really something special </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/navel-gaze-post---why-i-am-judiciously-re-embracing-black#post-1959909 Thu, 27 Sep 2018 01:08:49 +0000 Helena 1959909@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thanks everyone for weighing in; lots of love for black!<br /> Suz, I like that language ... an anchor; that nailed it right on the head. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/navel-gaze-post---why-i-am-judiciously-re-embracing-black#post-1959906 Thu, 27 Sep 2018 00:58:57 +0000 Suz 1959906@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>This makes sense to me! I use black judiciously, also, more as an accent or anchor than a "colour" in my wardrobe or even (regular) neutral. It suits you better than me with your dark hair, but even so I find it essential at times.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/navel-gaze-post---why-i-am-judiciously-re-embracing-black#post-1959893 Wed, 26 Sep 2018 23:27:35 +0000 Katerina 1959893@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I love your post TG. I recognize a lot of what you are saying.<br /> I have always loved black and always had many black pieces. Black trousers and skirts used to be almost all I wore the cooler months of the year. Black trousers and suits and blazers are still among my workhorses. I also enjoy wearing a column of black with a colourful blazer and/or coat. However, as I wear a lot of black, I try to inject some other colours with bags, scarves and sometimes shoes. So I only own a few black bags and solid black scarves. Lately I rediscovered all black outfits again (with only tiny accents like gold and animal print, white accents of red or white etc. I am going to explore the possibilities of a black monochrome outfit with just different textures. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/navel-gaze-post---why-i-am-judiciously-re-embracing-black#post-1959869 Wed, 26 Sep 2018 19:54:26 +0000 Like the Season 1959869@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I have quite a bit of black in my wardrobe, so for a change, I've added some navy pieces for F/W. But I can't imagine dressing without black. Even if it's not my most flattering color, it fills a role that no other shade does (for all of the reasons you mentioned). </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/navel-gaze-post---why-i-am-judiciously-re-embracing-black#post-1959864 Wed, 26 Sep 2018 19:41:19 +0000 LaPed 1959864@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Like you, I have a hard time combining blue denim with blue tops. On the flip side, I don't hesitate to pair black tops with black denim. And I agree that black leather goods really do go the distance. I tend to be a pragmatist about shoes and bags, and prefer something that can go with anything in a pinch. Black bag and black shoes, simple (or even dull?) as it sounds, is a pretty reliable way to feel pulled-together at a moment's notice. Excellent reasoning, and no need to be apologetic! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/navel-gaze-post---why-i-am-judiciously-re-embracing-black#post-1959848 Wed, 26 Sep 2018 18:07:59 +0000 The Cat 1959848@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Feel free to add as many black items as you want to. It seems that you have learnt from personal experience how to make black work for you.</p> <p>I, too, wear much less black than I did years ago. One of the reasons is that my hair has turned grey and is now turning white. Skin and eyes also get slightly paler as I get older, so too much black near the face can look harsh. Many of my black basics have been replaced with grey or, lately, white ones. However, I guess that I'll always want to have at least some black bottoms, tops (crewnecks etc.--no black turtlenecks) and footwear. Black is elegant and versatile year round and particularly in winter.</p> <p>I find navy a bit boring on myself and therefore tend to avoid it. I prefer either black or a richer midnight blue. However, I view all the dark blues as non-neutrals. My neutrals are white, grey and black, and lately, I have added rosebeige and cool brown. Unlike you, I'll happily wear several blue shades together, but always with the addition of a neutral. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/navel-gaze-post---why-i-am-judiciously-re-embracing-black#post-1959846 Wed, 26 Sep 2018 18:06:10 +0000 Cardiff girl 1959846@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I find black draining near my face but do still occasionally wear it with other face brightening tricks like jewellery and red lipstick ,as you say it s so useful sometimes. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/navel-gaze-post---why-i-am-judiciously-re-embracing-black#post-1959843 Wed, 26 Sep 2018 17:45:44 +0000 Gigi 1959843@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I am totally on board with this. I too find black makes me look drained. I think that a judicious use of the color is the best route. As you point out, sometimes black just works best for a background color if you want to wear other "true" colors with it. And navy can feel too much like a "real" color. And nothing can beat black for feeling dressy sometimes! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/navel-gaze-post---why-i-am-judiciously-re-embracing-black#post-1959841 Wed, 26 Sep 2018 17:22:20 +0000 carter 1959841@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Navy is a *color* for me as well. As much as I love it, I still need a *neutral* in an outfit to feel right. And I totally agree about other shades of blue with navy (even dark denim). I think you look great in black, and with your minimalist approach, I couldn't agree more that Black is a great option for you, especially in jeans and leather accessories. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/navel-gaze-post---why-i-am-judiciously-re-embracing-black#post-1959836 Wed, 26 Sep 2018 16:56:20 +0000 kkards 1959836@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I've also generally stepped away from black in favor of navy....but sometimes something black just speaks to me...and i still have a lot of "hold over' black....and i've come around to wearing black with navy.... </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/navel-gaze-post---why-i-am-judiciously-re-embracing-black#post-1959812 Wed, 26 Sep 2018 15:21:36 +0000 rachylou 1959812@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>That outfit is a Wow! I like your approach. It’s well considered. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/navel-gaze-post---why-i-am-judiciously-re-embracing-black#post-1959810 Wed, 26 Sep 2018 15:02:46 +0000 Helena 1959810@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Joy, I hope the weight loss was for positive reasons and not because of illness or stress; another handy point about black - it doesn't date as quickly as other colors so black pieces often have closet longevity!<br />Joyce, yes, the ease of it can't be denied.<br />Sarah, Angie, thanks! Hooray for navy and black combined; I love that combo!<br />Lisa, I'll pay attention to how black works into your outfits.&nbsp;<br />Gryffin, as usual you provide depth and food for thought - and I'm not sure the answer to your question tbh. Probably because I've hand-wrung over black to such a ridiculous extent already. Such is me. I'm an overthinker. I knew you'd be on board; now where has Deb gone??<br />Bijou, black was the bulk of my work wardrobe back when I was in a corporate setting - I could wear the same black suit every day and no one would notice providing I changed up the shirt. I'm not even sure that can be said of other neutrals!<br />Smittie, yes! Not that I don't love a good shoe or bag, but honestly, I tend to wear the same ones over and over anyways, so may as well maximize the versatility and longevity, and make it easier to replace one piece of the leather capsule rather than having to replace the whole thing every time something gets tired. I think leathers will be the bulk of my black, along with a few key pieces that are mostly already in place - a classic black crew and turtleneck, slim pants, a blazer, and a dress-up-or-down shirt/blouse (which I have but needs upgrading when I can). I could do with a black t-shirt or two, and might get the BR criss-crossy one that I already have in navy as a long sleeve, and then keep an eye out for a classic v-neck short sleeve. That should cover all the bases!</p> <p> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/navel-gaze-post---why-i-am-judiciously-re-embracing-black#post-1959804 Wed, 26 Sep 2018 14:42:06 +0000 Anonymous 1959804@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Yup, yup, yup, nodding along, nodding along, nodding along.<br />Many of your observations have proven true for me. We have similar colouring and lifestyle (MOTG) so it makes sense.<br />The main difference between us is that I don't mind wearing all sorts of blues together, as long as there is enough navy.<br />Judicious use of black is the name of the game. For me, I try to limit it to leathers. I am now considering a pair of black pants, now that I see your black and cobalt outfit.</p> <p>I definitely feel like black footwear and bag are so much easier than anything else, and that black enables a more minimalist approach to dressing (you don't need so many bags/shoes).</p> <p> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/navel-gaze-post---why-i-am-judiciously-re-embracing-black#post-1959801 Wed, 26 Sep 2018 14:37:59 +0000 Bijou 1959801@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I love black and will always have a large amount of it in my wardrobe. It is a great wear to work colour. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/navel-gaze-post---why-i-am-judiciously-re-embracing-black#post-1959797 Wed, 26 Sep 2018 14:33:17 +0000 gryffin 1959797@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>TG - well you know I am on board.&nbsp; My only ? and I guess this could apply to a big part of the forum is,&nbsp; Why do you feel you need to apologize?&nbsp; No one would bat an eye if they said they were embracing green or purple or white or cranberry.&nbsp; Like any color choice, if it's deliberate, flattering, useful and chosen with care and not default, why does it need special explanation? It's just another color choice&nbsp;and it sounds like a very good and useful one for you. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/navel-gaze-post---why-i-am-judiciously-re-embracing-black#post-1959794 Wed, 26 Sep 2018 14:27:16 +0000 Anonymous 1959794@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I feel much the same way with regards to black. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/navel-gaze-post---why-i-am-judiciously-re-embracing-black#post-1959789 Wed, 26 Sep 2018 14:21:53 +0000 Angie 1959789@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Helena honey-pie, and navy is smashing WITH black </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/navel-gaze-post---why-i-am-judiciously-re-embracing-black#post-1959787 Wed, 26 Sep 2018 14:19:34 +0000 SarahD8 1959787@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>This is a very well thought out plan. Thank you for sharing your thought process! I look forward to seeing you put these plans into action. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/navel-gaze-post---why-i-am-judiciously-re-embracing-black#post-1959770 Wed, 26 Sep 2018 13:53:10 +0000 Joyce B 1959770@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>That is a good report, I agree that black has its place and your comment about black being always black is so true. Black has no shades whereas trying to match brown or navy shoes one realizes how many different shades there are. Black is definitely easier which is probably why it is always present and very useful in the wardrobe. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/navel-gaze-post---why-i-am-judiciously-re-embracing-black#post-1959769 Wed, 26 Sep 2018 13:51:52 +0000 Anonymous 1959769@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Loved your report. I also went through a period eliminating black in favor of navy, charcoal grey and browns, but came back to some black after losing too much weight to still fit into all my carefully curated colors. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/navel-gaze-post---why-i-am-judiciously-re-embracing-black#post-1959765 Wed, 26 Sep 2018 13:44:47 +0000 Helena 1959765@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Hi all,<br />I was an absolute black clothing devotee until after the birth of my second baby, when I started to notice that it would look a little draining, and the style and fashion world was working hard to pull women out of our black-clothes dependency. It's been a great, freeing process, and I've learned so much about color, flattery, and style by removing that 'default' - for example, I had to get a lot better about judging clothes by their merits; whereas, in the past, I would think, black always works, and not give other details much thought.</p> <p>Having virtually eliminated black from my wardrobe, I have recently started to <i>carefully </i>add some back into the mix. Navy/ink is my primary neutral, so black will be <i>firmly in a supporting role</i>. Here's why I'm open to it again: <ul> <li>I love navy, but to me it's still a color. Therefore, if I want to wear other colors than my beloved navy, black can be a really useful backdrop. This is especially true because I love all shades of blue, but generally don't like wearing two shades of blue together. I was so pleased with <a rel="nofollow" href="https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wiw---cool-mom">this outfit</a>, but the black pants (vs. say jeans) were an essential component. I love navy and black together, so that works too.</li> <li>It works well for leather-goods. I was determined to buy a chocolate brown pair of boots, until I started looking for a purse. I enjoy my taupe booties but don't really want to buy a purse just to go with them. Black is the same season over season, so buying black shoes this year, and then trying to find a purse next year isn't an issue. For reference, I've used the same tote virtually daily for the last 4 years, so an easy, minimalist approach to this category suits me! Also, black bookends my hair effectively. Bottom line, most of the time I buy non-black leather goods, I think, I like it, but wish I'd got it in black! Exception: my white Birks for summer and a brown belt to wear with said Birks and a column of light, where black would be too heavy.</li> <li>For <i>some </i>pieces, the versatility just can't be beat. For example, I rarely need to dress up, so things like a black, well-fitting blouse or button-up can fit the bill for a business meeting (with printed dress pants), a girls night out or party (with some bling and a bright lip), or a casual polished look (with scrunched sleeves and jeans). A dark ink can be as good, but is not always as easy to find.</li> </ul> So there you have it - that's your Wednesday navel-gaze black report! </p>