Back To Black

Back To Black..

November has arrived and you need look no further than Amy Winehouse for inspiration. I’m not suggesting you tie a scarf around your head and invite Pete Doherty over for a booze up. You should however, consider going back to black. If the prospect of wearing black head-to-toe brings you out in a cold sweat, fear not. It may indeed be the preferred colour of undertakers, nuns, goths and Halloween enthusiasts but it can also look incredibly dapper when approached in the right way. There’s a reason historical designers such as Coco Chanel, Cristobal Balenciaga, Christian Dior and Yves Saint Laurent often featured black in their collections. It’s the same reason A-List stars such as George Clooney, Daniel Craig and Brad Pitt opt for a black tux when they want to create a paparazzi storm on the red carpet. When cut, fabric, silhouette and texture are considered, a black ensemble can go from being sombre and dull to sexy and powerful. Unlike wearing colour, it’s a failsafe option. To make an impact, go for a unique design detail and razor-sharp tailoring. Mix textures to create visual interest. Combining different textiles such as wool, brushed cotton, cotton jersey and patent leather will add depth to a look.

I’ve hand-picked five key pieces from My-wardrobe.com that will have you reveling in your dark side:

1.McQ Alexander McQueen Black Asymmetrical Zip Wool Blouson - £390

This edgy jacket is proof that men’s fashion can be just as interesting as women’s. A future wardrobe classic, the asymmetrical zip creates a Winter-friendly funnel neck. When unzipped, the lapel falls on one side for a more casual take.

2. B-Store Black Jersey Collarless Balham Shirt - £95

Cotton jersey is superb for Winter layering. Thin enough to be worn under a snug jumper and jacket, it’s also breathable and soft on the skin. Layer a white vest or T-Shirt under this shirt and unbutton the top two-to-three buttons for a look that’s pure Johnny Depp.

3. Day Birger et Mikkelsen Tapered Brushed Cotton Chino - £89

These trousers are so fashion forward that they’ll earn you instant style credentials. The low-rise waist band and tapered leg are the rocker approach to dressing for dinner. Less width in your trouser hem means more of your shoes will be on show so it’s a great chance to flash your footwear.

4. D&G Dolce&Gabbana Black Patent Leather Lace-Up Shoe - £270

There’s smart shoes and then there’s smart black shoes that are so suave that they’ll make your feet the talking point of any party. It’s often said that one of the first things women notice about men are their shoes (or appalling choice of). These beauties will earn you bonus points with the ladies - guaranteed.

5. Vivienne Westwood Black Abstract Orb Scarf - £80

Inject a little anarchy into your attire with this graphic print scarf. Well-chosen accessories can elevate your look from simple to superb in seconds.

www.my-wardrobe.com