It’s about time that I approached the subject of how to break the black habit. Instead of relying on head-to-toe black, my crew is showing you 4 approachable ways to bring more variety into your wardrobe.
Quote of the day: “Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.” Mahatma Gandhi
Black is the default for so many women. We were brainwashed for years that it was slimming and chic. I bet it also feels safe to many women because it’s familiar.
I believe that if you REALLY want to be chic and fabulous, then playing it safe is holding you back.
Don’t believe me?? See some side by side examples where I ditch the age code.
Yet as much as I appreciate a little black in my wardrobe, I also believe it can keep us from exploring the full range of fun that fashion has to offer.
Insider tip: This doesn’t mean purging all of the black in your closet. It’s about nudging ourselves to make small swaps, add color, and rethink how we wear black.
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So join me and my crew as we use 4 different concepts to break the black habit. And let me know your favorite concept that you will try.
I wanted to start with a column of black, but see if I could change up the vibe.
While I could have added a multicolor topper, I challenged myself to make a scarf top. In the “Details” below, I linked to the video of how I failed a couple of times before ending with this result. It’s still not my ideal, but it is what it is.
Other options would work splendidly too for this concept:
-colorful top,
-colorful cardigan,
-statement necklace, especially stacked with other necklaces
-wear the scarf traditionally around your neck
The idea is that if you’re going to wear black as a base, layer something on top that feels playful, vibrant, or seasonal. That way, black becomes your supporting actor instead of the star of the show.
Details:
-I Love the idea of a scarf as a top over another top (which I’ve shown in the past), so it’s more modest. I created a video to show how this example didn’t go as planned, and still wasn’t my favorite, but it could work. I think a silk scarf might drape better, and maybe a smaller option wouldn’t have as much extra material to finagle.
-While I wasn’t sure about these sandals at first, I absolutely love them. Even though they are “black” they have an interesting vibe.
Charlotte is the queen of monochromatic, and her instructions were to wear lighter neutrals in a head-to-toe look.
Breaking the black habit doesn’t mean you have to swing all the way to bold, bright colors if that’s not your thing.
Instead, consider swapping your black pieces for lighter neutrals like grey, ivory, beige, or even taupe. For this look, my mom wore a soft grey ensemble.
Think of it this way: black can sometimes create harsh contrast, especially against skin or hair that doesn’t have as much pigmentation.
By wearing a lighter neutral, you keep the versatility without the starkness.
Details:
-Charlotte has worn these pants for a winter, textured outfit with color. It’s proof that other neutrals are just as versatile as black.
-My mom is super proud of this stunning, textural scarf that she bought on a trip to Russia. It’s one of those unique pieces that has sentimental memories.
On the flip side, Valerie proves that sometimes you just need to swap black for bold.
Instead of defaulting to black, why not choose a jewel tone or a saturated color? And then the accessories are black, so you still get that black piece in your outfit.
The trick here is to think of bold colors as your new “base neutrals.” Any other color can fill the role that black usually plays. You can pair it with patterns, tone-on-tone shades, or even other bold colors if you’re feeling adventurous.
It’s about reframing your mindset. Instead of “black goes with everything,” tell yourself “color goes with everything.”
If you need a reminder, then just step outside and take in the inspiration from Mother Nature.
Details:
-Notice that Valerie is wearing a scarf as a belt. It’s an extra credit idea that was showcased just last week, and it works wonderfully in the summer because scarves aren’t as hot as leather belts.
-Black is a wonderful contrast against this red dress outfit in her accessories, purse, and even sunnies.
Lesley’s approach to breaking the black habit may be easier for those who are very entrenched in the black habit. She’s still wearing black, but by choosing a black print, there’s much more interest.
I love how she shared with me: “Breaking the black habit is not always easy, and like any addiction, it’s step by step or one outfit at a time.”
Lesley also commented that “once you start getting compliments on your outfit because new colors on you will catch attention, it will be easier to get away from your habit.”
She says this out of experience: “I was one of those who thought black was always appropriate and had a simple, if boring, closet. WOW, look at me now!”
Details:
-Wearing a black print item gives you built-in styling inspiration. For example, Lesley chose the color blue from the print and repeated it.
-I bet everyone has a favorite color, and that’s the easiest way to choose a black print piece. Find one that has black AND your favorite color and go from there.
I get it. Black feels safe. It’s often touted as “slimming” and “timeless.” And sometimes we’re just tired and don’t want to think too hard about what to wear.
It also doesn’t help that most retailers have a ton of items in black. It’s a vicious circle. The retailers buy what they know consumers will purchase. And if consumers are always purchasing black, then retailers will give them black because they want to make Money.
But here’s the truth: color and variety actually make us look more vibrant and interesting. Light neutrals soften us. Bold hues energize us. Prints add playfulness. And layering pieces gives us depth.
Breaking the black habit doesn’t mean abandoning black altogether. It just means being mindful (and yes, a little daring) so black doesn’t become the automatic default every single day.
Baby steps are the easiest way to break the black habit:
If you want more ideas on how to add color to your looks, we’ve gone into depth about the subject:
–Baby Steps for adding more color
–A black dress with colorful accessories
Fashion is supposed to be fun, and black will always have a place in our closets. But when we rely on it too heavily, we miss out on all the richness and variety clothing can bring.
There are countless ways to break the black habit, and I hope we’ve given you not only inspiration but permission.
Insider tip: Don’t have much in your closet that isn’t black? Then visit the thrift store or borrow from a friend. Then you haven’t spent an arm and a leg, yet you have options.
By this time in our lives, we realize that style isn’t just about clothes, it’s about confidence, joy, and showing the world all the colors that make you, you.
Be unique, have fun with your style, and don’t be afraid to stop playing it safe.
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Welcome to Jodie’s Touch of Style. I’m here to prove that it’s never too late to look great. Clothing and style are meant to showcase your inner personality. So let’s have fun and try new things.
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