Yesterday, we took a look at a monochromatic outfit in action—black pants and a black blouse with black pumps. It’s a simple OOTD that can take you to many places. Today, we’ll keep the black pants and mix it up a bit. But first, let’s examine why black pants are considered a wardrobe staple.
One reason is that black pants are eternally chic and sophisticated which is why you should own at least one pair. And since they’re neutral, they can be dressed up or down and worn to work or the weekend. But when it comes to choosing the perfect pair, you’ll soon find that not all black pants are created equally.
While gray may come in 50 shades (I couldn’t resist!), black doesn’t come close, although I daresay there might be 50 silhouettes. According to Vogue, if we choose wisely, we can narrow down our picks to five styles: leggings, denim, leather or faux leather, slacks, and tuxedo.
Why include black pants as a wardrobe staple? They’re effortless and versatile. On those days when you think you’ve nothing to wear, grab a pair of black pants. Add a simple tee, a button-up shirt, a wrap top, or a sweater. Voila! Instant outfit.
If you want an effortless outfit, the black pant doesn’t require much effort at all. Next time you think black pants are bor-ing or reserved only for the workforce, don’t be so hard on this hardworking wardrobe staple.
TL;DR
Black pants are wardrobe staples, and today, I’m deep-diving on how to wear them
I’ve modeled the pants and put together 2 alternatives
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Black Pants Are Wardrobe Staples
1. The Straight Pant
(Ann Taylor)
Today’s black pants from Ann Taylor are considered slacks. In my humble opinion, Ann Taylor makes some of the best-fitting pants for women. This particular pair is the Straight Leg that comes in Regular, Curvy, Petite, and Tall. It’s a timeless straight-leg pant with a front zip and off-seam pockets. It’s mid-rise which sits below your natural waist.
This pant is a best seller from Ann, but when I checked the reviews, some said the sizing was off. I did not find this to be the case as I’m wearing my regular size 8 and didn’t have any issues.
Fringe Tweed Shell (Ann Taylor) | The Straight Pant (Ann Taylor) | Captain’s Blazer (Banana Republic) | Mabi Pointed-Toe Pumps (DKNY) | Lee Radziwill Petite Double Top-Handle Bag (Tory Burch) | Gold Link Necklace (Frances Valentine) | Love Letters Pendant Necklace (Tory Burch) | 57mm Square Sunglasses (Gucci) | Caviar Icon Beaded Bangle Bracelet (LAGOS) | Caviar Stainless Steel Apple Watch Band (LAGOS)
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2. Fringe Tweed Shell
(Ann Taylor)
Fringe Tweed Shell (Ann Taylor) | The Straight Pant (Ann Taylor) | Captain’s Blazer (Banana Republic) | Mabi Pointed-Toe Pumps (DKNY) | Lee Radziwill Petite Double Top-Handle Bag (Tory Burch) | Gold Link Necklace (Frances Valentine) | Love Letters Pendant Necklace (Tory Burch) | 57mm Square Sunglasses (Gucci) | Caviar Icon Beaded Bangle Bracelet (LAGOS) | Caviar Stainless Steel Apple Watch Band (LAGOS)
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3. Captain’s Blazer
(Banana Republic)
The black pants are paired with a tweed shell ‘cuz I feel the need for tweed. Honestly, could you give me all the tweed all the time? It’s a timeless pattern that just adds that little extra something to an outfit and I love navy and black paired together. Add a black blazer and black pumps, and I’m off to work in style or even brunch on the weekend.
Fringe Tweed Shell (Ann Taylor) | The Straight Pant (Ann Taylor) | Captain’s Blazer (Banana Republic) | Mabi Pointed-Toe Pumps (DKNY) | Lee Radziwill Petite Double Top-Handle Bag (Tory Burch) | Gold Link Necklace (Frances Valentine) | Love Letters Pendant Necklace (Tory Burch) | 57mm Square Sunglasses (Gucci) | Caviar Icon Beaded Bangle Bracelet (LAGOS) | Caviar Stainless Steel Apple Watch Band (LAGOS)
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Alternative Stylings
Left Board: The Straight Pant (Ann Taylor) | Stripe Cable Knit Coatigan (Talbots) | Perfect Shit (Talbots) | Sanda Strappy Sandal (Vince Camuto) Right Board: The Straight Pant (Ann Taylor) | Brushed Wool Blend Blazer (Talbots) | Poplin Tunic (Talbots) | Elora Platform Espadrille Sandal (Dolce Vita)
In Case You Missed It
Yesterday, I showed you how to style a monochromatic outfit. Click the title or image below to read the article.
How to Style a Monochromatic Outfit
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About The Author
I totally agree that Ann Taylor’s pants are excellent! They fit beautifully and are made from quality fabrics as well as being offered in several different styles. I have Ann Taylor pants that are easily 3-5 years old!
They just have the fit down pat!
Black is truly a classic! I love that I can wear a pop of bright color or just a column of black. My go-to outfits !
Like you, I just love the versatility of black pants!
Love black pants!!!! And your styling of them. On a side note, look at your Left Board post. A small spelling error.
Too funny! Thanks for the heads up!
Love your outfit today! You look so chic and polished.
Black pants are always a “do”!
You are so right about basic blacks pants. I also have a pair of black leggings and a pair of black denim. . Sweaters, classic white shirt and jackets are never without a bottom!
When in doubt, black pants always works!
I have wide leg black pants, skinny black pants, black trouser pants, you name it! Thank you Beth for focusing on black pants as a wardrobe staple. You look amazing with the leopard coat over the column of black. And those patent black heels are stunning!
Give me all the black pants! Love how you have so many different silhouettes at your beck and call!