All Black Everything

I am not one to don an all-black outfit on the daily.  I used to shy away from it because I always thought it looked rather "harsh" and unforgiving on my 90-lb twenties self.  That practice stuck with me well into my early thirties, thinking that I'm better off with blues and grays-- colors that don't highlight my frail and lanky self.  That has been my belief until reality a.k.a. motherhood smacked me real hard to snap me back to reality.  Curves, bulges, gains-- basically, the whole nine yards.  Two years after giving birth to Vania, I grew hips the size of a soccer field, developed arm and thigh muscles fats making me lose that ridiculously hyped thigh gap.  While this could be a cause of concern for some, this new development thrilled me, somehow.  Hey, I could already wear tops that show a little of my décolletage without feeling self-conscious of my bony chest!  That in itself is an accomplishment. Ha!

While wearing an all-black outfit can be one-dimensional, it doesn't necessarily have to be boring.  For an all-back outfit to look put together or to stand out even, one must remember 5 important things in pulling off this look.

1. Always make sure that the fabric is season appropriate.  Nothing is more uncomfortable than wearing knitted textile in the dead of summer or chiffon in the middle of winter (in other parts of the world) or in our case, during the monsoon season.  Always be particular of the fabric.

2.  Black is slimming, choose items that flaunt/flatter your asset/s.  You'd want to stay away from pieces that are too loose, too long or those with unflattering cuts as they may make you look dowdy instead of looking put together.  Always go for well-fitted and flattering clothing pieces, bare just the right amount skin and flaunt your assets without going overboard.  Finding balance is key.

3.  Play with textures.  Keep the look interesting by playing with textures-- fringe, suede, pleats, embellished, lace- to not make it look too plain and boring.

4.  Accessorise.  If you're not a fan of prints and patterns, then go big on accessories.  Statement earrings, chunky necklaces or a bright patterned bag or clutch-- things that add more flair to your monochromatic look.  

5.  Makeup matters.  Complete the overall look by complementing your makeup.  Dark lipstick on an all-black ensemble would be appropriate for nighttime wear while nude lips on dewy skin would be most suitable for your daytime look.  Your makeup can make or break your all-black outfit.  Always find balance.

DressLily Retro Style Metal Frame Pink Mirrored Sunglasses

For this all-black daytime wear, I opted to wear minimal accessories and flats suitable for days when I'm jaunting around town running errands.  And of course, chic sunglasses to complete the look and protect my peepers.  This retro style thick-rimmed mirrored sunglasses from DressLily was love at first sight.  I've been on the prowl for thick-rimmed sunglasses hopping from one mall to another hoping to score one in this particular style.  Luckily, DressLily has them in different styles and frame finish that I just couldn't myself but get two.  This one in rectangular frame, the other one in aviator style which I will be sharing in my next post.

DressLily Thick-rimmed sunglasses | Prima Jewels Earrings and necklace | Pandora bangle
Wardrobe Switch top & pleated culottes | H&M slides | Kate Spade bag

I hope you guys are having a fun-filled weekend! 'til my next post!