Kim Johnson Gross shares her secrets for maximizing a woman's wardrobe with just one pair of black pants. Start by investing in one good, classic black pantsuit.
* Note: Once you've found the perfect pair of black pants, make sure the fit is right for you. Sit down, walk around, look in the mirror, make sure you can move comfortably and check for a panty line before making a purchase.
Styles to look for with black pants:
The classic suit--The foundation of any wardrobe begins here. Go with a fabric that can be worn year-round such as a lightweight wool crepe. The high-button stance on this jacket looks very professional with a white blouse (figure A). Replacing the blouse with a decorative necklace changes the entire look of the suit. The most valuable feature of this outfit, of course, is the black pants.
Bulky knits--Color stands out against black, and a brightly-colored knit sweater and black pants makes for a perfect weekend look (figure B). Black is slimming, which means that your pants can fade into the background and allow the other colors of your wardrobe--and you--to shine.
Suede jacket--Sometimes outerwear can clash with black garments, but here the suede jacket placed over all black looks very sophisticated (figure C).
Patterns--A tweed jacket and black pants is a very pulled-together look that allows the pattern and color of the tweed to emerge (figure D).
Colorful tops--Yes, black pants can have a little attitude when paired with a colorful top (figure E). This fun, funky look can be as jazzy as you want with added accessories. A top can be colorful but conservative, such as a bright red sheer blouse that adds a splash of boldness.
Evening wear--Shimmering, shiny tops look great paired with black pants for a night out on the town (figure F). The wonderful thing about black is that the top doesn't necessarily have to be top-dollar. Black serves to prop up the most average top and frankly allows a budget top to come off with much higher quality than it actually is. The black jacket can be worn over a decorative top to further expand the outfit.
Accessories--The best way to stay updated with a timeless outfit is through seasonal accessories, whether it be fabric bags, the latest in texture, color or beading. Have a small evening bag on hand at all times.
Resources What Should I Wear?: Dressing for Occasions (Chic Simple)
by Kim Johnson Gross, Linda Griffin, and Jeff Stone (ISBN: 0375402454)
Knopf, 1998
Order this
title.
Random House, Inc.
Website:
www.randomhouse.com Guests Kim Johnson Gross
Co-Creator, Chic Simple
Phone: 212-343-9677
URL:
www.chicsimple.com
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