The new job sounds wonderful, Debbie, right up your alley! Bummer about the all-black dress code though, but you've received so many good ideas already (and I like the two pieces you picked).
I was also thinking to pile on as much texture as possible Also: shine and shimmer, black-on-black patterns, embellishments... Interesting design details like tuxedo stripes, zippers, buttons, asymmetrical hemlines, peplums, tie knots, twist fronts, ruching, mixed media, interesting necklines, batwing sleeves, balloon sleeves, fringe detailing etc.
Two other things that came to mind:
- Brooches, because they can easily bring visual interest to solid-coloured (or self-patterned) black tops and jackets and you can add some 'artiness' to your outfits that way too.
- If you are wearing skirts and/or dresses: playing with patterned hosiery and leggings with some visual interest (and when wearing cropped pants or ankle-length pants/jeans you can also have fun with socks).
I've looked around a bit too:-)
Here are some examples of jackets/cardigans that might work:
