Black Lace

Black Lace

How to Make the Most of Wearing a Little Black Dress

What is it about the THE LITTLE BLACK DRESS that makes it so iconic?  It seems that according to market research every woman needs one and most women have one.  I for one don’t!  Black doesn’t suit me, not that this has stopped many other women.  A small part of me would love a little black cocktail dress and I have thought long and hard about why that is.  Even if you decide that you must have a black dress, there are so many variations on that theme. 

 

Traditionally black is “slimming”.  This is questionable.  Trinny and Suzannah did an experiment of sorts with boxes on the television recently and generally black was considered a “heavier” colour.  All darker colours can be “slimming”, not necessarily black and using different colours together can have a greater effect.

 

There is something glamorous and sexy about a black dress.  Perhaps it seems mysterious or superior.  Certainly women who suit black do look incredibly chic dressed in a black dress. 

 

Black is considered smart.  Yes, this is true but there are many other less harsh colours that are also very smart.  Charcoal grey or Pewter are examples.

 

Black is available.  This to me is the single most important factor.  During the winter months, particularly running up to Christmas, the shops are full of black dresses.  No wonder we are all tempted into them.

 

But look around and you will find some other beautiful, jewel like colours to wear to all those Christmas parties.  Purple, Jade, Scarlet.  They are all out there and just think how you will stand out from the crowd.

 

If however, I cannot persuade you to change your mind, please consider the following tips to look your very best in black. 

 

If you have pale hair, skin and eyes, black will swamp you but by keeping it away from your face and choose a chiffon or lace fabric teamed with jewellery in a lighter colour, you can look fabulous.  You may need to apply a little more make-up than usual, again using an eye pencil in a flattering colour.

 

If you have dark hair and eyes then the world is your oyster as far as black goes.  Go on, you are in the minority who look great in black from head to foot.

 

If you have red or auburn hair, black will be very harsh on your skin.  Try to wear a lower cut dress and team it with a warm coloured scarf or jewellery.  Terracotta or salmon pink could look great.  Again, think about the fabric.  Soft or textured fabrics will absorb the light and be more flattering.

 

If you have grey or ash blonde hair, you can wear black more comfortably than many other women, but it is better to keep it away from your face.  If the neckline is too high it can make your chin shadowy.  Team your black dress with a lavender bolero or corsage and jewellery.

 

So it would seem that to a certain degree, we can all get away with wearing that Little Black Dress.  Just remember to use the style, fabric and colourful accessories to "customise" your black dress and make it perfect for you.

About the Author

Joanna Steele-Perkins is a senior image consultant with Colour Me Beautiful image consultants.
Based in Taunton, Somerset, she is a regular contributor to magazines and newspapers. She offers advice on all aspects of personal image and her services include colour analysis, style consultations, MakeUp Lesson and bridal advice.

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