Beyond Black
We often utilize black in our wardrobe by default, but does this approach truly work for everyone? I think we can do better.
I recently came across an ad with a simple yet bold directive: “Don’t overthink it. Just wear black.” The ad got me thinking about how often, in our wardrobes, we treat black as a default rather than a thoughtful choice. The simplicity and versatility of black clothing seems undeniable, but does this approach truly work for everyone?
Sartorially Subdued
I have personally fallen prey to the allure of black. In 2018, during my tenure at PayPal, a perceptive colleague posed a question that caught me off guard: 'Besides black, what is your power color?' The question lingered, compelling me to confront the reality that my wardrobe had inadvertently become a monochromatic sea of black—my default choice, the safe option that 'went with everything.' With the backdrop of San Francisco, a city adorned with vibrant buildings but sartorially subdued overall, I seamlessly blended into the sea of other Financial District day-dwellers.
My colleague’s question served as a wake-up call, urging me to scrutinize my closet and nudging me to infuse some color into my wardrobe. I did so haphazardly, and the results were less than fantastic. I added items only to relegate them later because they didn’t coordinate with the rest of my wardrobe or were not particularly flattering.
Over time, I recognized that some colors suited me better than others, and as I did, I recalled a book from the 1980s that had left a lasting, albeit not entirely favorable, impression: “Color Me Beautiful” by Carole Jackson. This immensely popular book introduced the concept of seasonal color analysis, categorizing individuals into four main color “seasons,” each corresponding to a specific set of colors that harmonize with the individual’s natural coloring. When the book came out, my mom had embraced this concept wholeheartedly, sticking to her winter colors (which included black!). As any typical teenager would, I initially dismissed the idea as a bit cheesy and stifling.
A Contemporary Approach to Color
Now a seasoned adult, I found that, while the book is adorned with slightly campy imagery characteristic of 80s fashion, its enduring concepts had transcended its visual style. The notion of 'wearing your colors' has evolved and been modernized through the introduction of more nuanced systems. Contemporary models subdivide the traditional four seasons into a spectrum, acknowledging the capacity for individuals to 'borrow' colors from other seasons. For instance, while Carole Jackson might have asserted that only those with winter coloring could confidently wear black, current systems suggest that individuals with specific subtypes of spring and autumn coloring can also embrace this cool, deep hue.
This contemporary approach resonated with me, prompting me to discover colors that best suited my complexion. As I began wearing 'my colors' (admittedly, it still sounds a bit cheesy), I noticed several key benefits. My complexion brightened, and I could confidently avoid purchasing items that didn’t flatter my coloring. The newfound coordination in my wardrobe simplified the process of mixing and matching. The complementarity of the items allowed for a tighter edit with fewer pieces, resulting in both cost and environmental savings. Most noticeably, I became adept at discerning what colors—beyond the ubiquitous black—suited me best. Today, my wardrobe boasts beautiful navy blues, sea greens, deep grays, muted purples, and the occasional (thoughtfully considered) black item, illustrating the power of embracing a broader color palette.
In the process of identifying my own color palette, I uncovered a fascinating truth: when you repeat your body’s inate colors in your clothing and accessories, you appear healthy and vital. Bringing our focus back to the ubiquitous choice of black, it became evident that its widespread use has led us to overlook its effects on those wearing it. Black is cool, deep, and bright, and it accentuates the beauty of women whose coloring mirrors these characteristics. However, it can drain women with more delicate or muted coloring. That doesn’t mean that these women must avoid it altogether, but it does suggest that they might find more flattering colors.
My work at The Stylish Sabbatical embodies this ethos. When I curate wardrobe edits, I create them for women of different seasons. I deliberately include black only when it harmonizes with the unique coloring specified in the edit. Amidst the holiday season, while most stylists default to black in their recommendations—especially for evening events, my edits aim to inspire you to explore colors that might be more suitable for you:
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As I reflect on my style evolution, I can't help but wonder – do you know the colors that complement your unique coloring? Discovering your palette can be a game-changer. There are various tools available to help you unveil the shades that will bring out the best in you. Reach out if you need recommendations and stay tuned as I will share more details on this topic in upcoming posts and articles.