how to wear black with grace and style
timeless classic style begins with a core neutral foundation: blacks, whites, grays, and the like. once you’ve established that base, you can weave in colors, prints, and patterns seamlessly, creating visual interest. but sometimes the most striking outfits are monochromatic ones. seems odd on the face of it, but i’m a big believer that an all-white or all-black outfit can be successfully pulled of. today, we’re gonna show you how—we’re talking how to wear black.
how to wear black
one of my favorite outfits from this past winter was an all-black one. i updated it for summer with a pair of black shorts from Banana Republic and a blouse from Nordstrom. to break up the monochrome every so slightly, i’ve pulled in a pair of black & white espadrilles (super comfy by the way) and a (similar) wicker bag.
shorts | similar shorts 1 | similar shorts 2 | similar shorts 3| similar skort | blouse | similar popover | espadrille | similar flat mule | similar wicker bag
how to wear shorts
it’s no secret that when summer rolls around, i pull out my shorts. shorts are a controversial subject amongst women of a certain age. my thoughts? if you like them, wear them. if not, that’s OK too. i’ve pulled in a few comparables today, including 10″ and 13″ shorts to give you some options.
shorts | similar shorts 1 | similar shorts 2 | similar shorts 3| similar skort | blouse | similar popover | espadrille | similar flat mule | similar wicker bag
gearing up for summer
we’re geared up for summer over here on the blog. the weather has warmed up here in Athens, and i’m happy to be outside and moving around. i’ve been spending a lot of my time in the backyard gardening, and as my knee continues to strengthen, i’ve even been able to take oscar for walks. with all that’s going on, it’s worth checking in on you: as spring ends, how are you preparing for summer? what are your days looking like?
shorts | similar shorts 1 | similar shorts 2 | similar shorts 3| similar skort | blouse | similar popover | espadrille | similar flat mule | similar wicker bag
Love your new hair style! thank you for all of the fashion, decorating, and recipe
ideas!
awww, thanks so much, linda! you made my day.
Your surgical scar looks great! Walking will really strengthen your knee but be careful walking Oscar you do not want to be tripped or knocked off balance. I was able to walk my Corgis about four months after surgery safely and confident ly. Take care love the blog and Kelly’s Kitchen.
you are so right about not walking oscar yet. one of my kiddo’s is living with me so he takes oscar by the reins or i venture out on my own. but boy-oh-boy does oscar look sad when i head out the front door without him…
Yay! Already bought those shorts from BR! I picked them because they’re a little dressier, good for lunch out, etc. And I have a blouse and straw bag nearly similar, I don’t have the shoes, but I’ll select something lighter to go with, maybe a light python sandal?
aren’t those shorts adorable? i love the attached belt and looser fit. a python sandal sounds perfect. Banana had a few in stock.
What your secret to keeping your legs in such good shape?
well aren’t you sweet? they’re a bit out of shape at the moment but squats, cycling and walks keep the muscles strong and healthy.
Hi Beth,
It looks like spring in Michigan with flowering trees and tulips but it doesn’t feel like it with temps in the 50s and 60s. Summer seems like a long way off. I love the outfit but would add a black and white necklace and purse that I have. I bet you would have lots of ideas on different ways to accessorize the same outfit
i hope spring arrives before summer! you don’t want to miss that gorgeous season. i don’t want to add insult to injury but this year Georgia put on a spectacular spring show. and i’m so thankful. some years we head straight into summer with hot temps right off the bat. but this year it’s been glorious.
You look great in black, Beth. It’s one of my go to combinations, regardless of season. I think it’s one of the most versatile, underused colours. People who don’t think they can wear black, just need to wear it buffered with a scarf, or as a cami under a jacket or sheer top. Even a Simple V-neck can do the trick. So many options.
neutrals always work don’t they? and i’s fun to accessorize a neutral outfit ina million ways. have fun!
I like this monochromatic outfit, and your knee looks great!
thanks, natalie! the knee is getting there that’s for sure!
Great black dressing article.
thanks so much, rosemarie!
Beautiful in black! I don’t usually wear black in Summer because we really get hot days here but it does look stunning on you. I like an all white look along these same lines. Thank you for showing us your beautiful home.
so many neutrals to pick from so choose your favorite! white is definitely a summer go-to.
Lovely look but then I am a person who wears columns of black, navy or white. You are looking great by the way and the first thing I turn to of a morning with my coffee here in the subtropics is your post and have done since you Sanr Fransisco days. I must say it is freezing here at the moment… wearing a polo neck. Stay well and safe
thanks for stopping by, jackie! stay warm.
You are looking great! Getting out in the fresh air and sunshine is great for recovery. Just be careful not to overdo! Our bodies really do tell us what we can and should do!
Love the black shorts and top!!😇
you are so right about not overdoing it. it’s so important to stop and listen to our bodies. they’re talking to us all the time.
Looking great, Beth! your leg looks like it is doing well, and it’s good to hear you’re out and about some. After 3 weeks, I was walking all over, and it hit me just how bad my knees had been before surgery. Still today–every single day I am grateful. I hope you are feeling the same.
I like the all black with the espadrilles. Classy Lady! And your hair looks good this length! I am discovering how my hair really looks–I still don’t have lots of gray at 65–I wish it would all just come in white as could be! I’ve got my locks in a pony tail as we speak, and it’s been a long time since I’ve done that! Thanks, Covid! 😉
Covid has all sorts of gifts to give especially when it comes to our hair! mine isn’t quite ponytail length but that’s my goal.
i know you must be over the moon to have your vibrant life back thanks to knee replacements. surgery isn’t necessarily a cakewalk but i’m like you and thrilled i can go on long walks again.
You look graceful yet stylish Beth!
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Sapna
thanks so much, sapna! take care.
Just an aside here, some of us do not wear black anymore. I used to because it was convenient, but I finally realized that it really wasn’t the best for me. So now when I see outfits in black I simply substitute navy for the black. BTW, I am really enjoying your blog. It’s nice to have someone showing fashion, etc. For those of us not so young (I’m 71). Thanks for what you do!