By Sharon Mosley
It's back to the dark side on fashion runways this fall, as designers get their little black books out once again and find that the classics have never lost their appeal.
After seasons of bright colors, the somber hue is once again making a sophisticated statement, but with much more drama. In fact, some of fashion's stylish black must-haves this year are just downright wicked. (And that's not in a bad way, Elfaba!)
Here's my top 10 list of the newest not-so-basics on this season's black list:
The Black Leather Jacket
It's a far cry from classic, but the leather jackets of this year may become even more versatile than your old motorcycle jacket from years past. In exotic embossed animal prints, waist-cinching belts and fur-trimmed collars and cuffs, these new fitted jackets are trés chic. Don't dress them down -- dress them up this season, just in time for holiday parties. My pick: Louis Vuitton's belted black croc version with mink collar.
Anything in Aastrakhan
Also known as curly lamb or Persian lamb, this inky black fur has long been one of my all-time favorites, starting with a 1940s capelet I inherited from a great-aunt years ago. This season, fashion designers have turned the velvety fur into dramatic coats and accessories. Faux is my preference and because of its short pile, a great look in less expensive fashion finds. My pick: a knee-length black lamb-look coat at JCPenney.
The Black Velvet Jacket
Another fashion favorite, but this year, it's much more fitted and much more refined with luxurious details -- trimmed in piping, passementerie, ribbons and bows. Perfect when paired with a Victorian-inspired lace blouse. A great piece that can be found at all price points and will take you from the office to the holiday party with stylish charm. My favorite pick: Robert Rodriguez velvet jacket with satin-tie front at www.neimanmarcus.com.
The Vintage Lace Skirt
Whether it's fitted to the hem and flares out in flowing gored insets or ankle-length with a swingy flair, the black lace skirt is one of the most versatile classics to own in black this season, not to mention one of the most glamorous. Teamed with high-heeled black boots and a velvet jacket, it can make a black-tie entrance; paired with cowboy boots and a chunky turtleneck, it's great for any festive casual gathering. My favorite: Jones New York Collection black lace skirt at www.nordstrom.com.
The Little Black Dress
Not so little anymore, but big on style this season in velvet halter gowns, tiered chiffon sheaths and shapely chemises adorned with jewels. This classic has stood the test of time and only seems to get better and better each time around the runway. There's a "little" black dress for everyone who wants to include a new tradition in their closet this season. My pick: Lace bodice dress from Laundry by Shelli Segal at www.saks.com.
The Victorian Black Boots and Shoes
And what goes better with a black lace skirt and velvet jacket than a new pair of black boots? The latest boots to strut their stuff on the catwalk were inspired by a modern take on the laced-up looks of the Victorians. Best in silky suede, these boots this season get ruffled and ribboned with old-fashioned flair. My favorites: the Centenary boots with ruffled cuffs and heels at Anthropologie. Velvet flats and suede pumps also have a turn-of-the-century feel this year, too. My favorite black flats: a steal at Lands' End for $39.50 -- velvet slip-ons trimmed with grosgrain ribbon -- at www.landsend.com.
The Black Clutch
Most of us have a favorite black handbag that goes with everything we wear. We may have experimented with a little color in the past few years, but what do we always seem to grab at the last minute? That trusty black bag, of course. Now, it's time to cling to a clutch. You may be able to luck into a really glam one at a vintage store, but if not, try the ultimate in chic: a black clutch from Chanel's new Mademoiselle collection -- my favorite pick at www.chanel.com.
The Black Suit
It's a stylish basic in anyone's little black fashion book. Find one for evening, detailed with a little sparkle and splash, or buy a streamlined version for professional polish at work. For the latest look, try a shorter jacket, wear your blouse untucked and go for higher heels or boots. My pick: Calvin Klein's clean-cut pinstriped pants and jacket at www.macys.com.
The Black Jet Beads
Just because I collect these doesn't mean I'm partial or anything to one of this season's biggest fashion trends, but I have to admit that hunting for these dark little jewels is one of my favorite pastimes. Ever since Queen Victoria wore the black jet jewelry when she was mourning the death of her beloved husband, Prince Albert, it's been in and out of the fashion forefront. From antique stores to Ebay, you can find lots of ways to wear these beads that are popular once again.
The Black Trench Coat
Another timeless fashion fix, not only for secret agents, but for style spies who love the look year after year after year. This time around, the belted coats are found in all different kinds of fabrics -- from wool to cotton -- some are detailed with the latest fur collars and cuffs. The best in black? My pick: Burberry's, of course, in double-breasted black wool with capelet sleeves. Call (800) 284-8480 for stores.
Sharon Mosley is a former fashion editor of the Arkansas Gazette in Little Rock and executive director of the Fashion Editors and Reporters Association.
Source: Copley News Service. Powered by Yellowbrix.
For more fall 2005 fashion trends, click here.
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