That old black magic has me in its spell, that old black magic that you weave so well,”… and so the famous song goes. There is simply nothing as chic as black when it comes to fashion so, of course, the lyrics get it exactly right. I know there are those that say “I can’t wear black,” and though it’s somewhat of a cliché, I understand where they’re coming from. Not every single person in the world looks good in head-to-toe black, however, when the right thing comes along, this no-color neutral can be the epitome of classy-and-cool style. Let’s take a look at some of the runway looks I saw at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week that really took the monochromatic dark side to new levels of high fashion.  There are elements in each of the following looks that can be translated to everyday wear for ALL of us …  

1. Texture, like this nubbly-knit look from Badgley Mischka, (seen right) is a great way to break up the all black aesthetic. Interesting textures always work when it comes to freshening up your style.

2. Look for tone-on-tone, such as this satin stripe on the skirt of this otherwise simple dress. Again, the interest comes from the contrast.

3. Detailing, like the set-in cap sleeves on this evening gown are another way to spark up a simple black dress, coat, sweater, or virtually any black garment.

#2 - Tone-on-Tone Satin Stripe		#3 - Detailing

4. Contrasting color blocking with just one color against a black backdrop is always very chic. This look is no exception. The magenta band on the sweater just makes it all pop – and, it almost seems like a belt!

5. A classic trench coat gets a twist from designer Carolina Herrera. Once again we see the grain of the fabrics create a shiny, versus matte look.  

6. Fringe elements add movement and interest to this strapless gown. Fringe done in the right way always works!

#4 - Contrasting Color Blocking	#5 - Classic Trench Coat	#6 - Fringe

7. Do you think leather is just for coats? Think again. Here’s a pullover v-neck that’s done in leather. It looks great with the skirt, but could also be paired with jeans for a sophisticated daytime ensemble.

8. Classic sheath dress gets a makeover with the contrasting grains of the fabric again. Do you see a trend here?

9. The motorcycle trend is taken to new lengths with this wrap-effect coat dress in a soft leather. It looks tough and feminine at the same time.

#7 - Black Leather	#8 - Classic Sheath Dress	#9 - Motorcycle Inspired

10. Another wrap-look skirt in the longer length of today is paired with a sparkly black top for some contrast. This is a very cool look indeed.

11. Last but not least, we see how just a little white piping goes a long way toward creating a crisp take on the a-line dress. The red tights set it all off and create a sense of drama.

#10 - Wrap-Skirt Look	#11 - White Piping

Black is a very forgiving color and when you find the right piece of clothing that fits and flatters your body type, you should scoop it up.  NEVER buy anything that’s faded, oversized and sloppy in black, it can look very sad and lackluster. So, to avoid that, you should shop frequently at your local Goodwill Store & Donation Center to find those items in black that can add a sense of style and sophistication to your day-to-day fashion adventures. Though many people think of black as a cold and unwelcoming color, you can rest assured that your purchases at our stores, and your donations of gently-used items will keep on supporting our mission, which helps people gain meaningful employment and self-assurance. There’s nothing cold about that.