A black shirt is a versatile wardrobe staple that can be dressed up or dressed down for any occasion. With the right styling, a black shirt can take you from the office to a night out seamlessly. When putting together an outfit with a black shirt, there are a few key things to consider that can elevate your look.
Styling a Black Shirt for Men
Men have plenty of options when it comes to wearing a black shirt in a stylish way. From smart casual to more formal looks, black shirts work for men across various settings and dress codes.
Going Business Casual
A black shirt worn in a business casual way projects professionalism while still appearing approachable and relaxed.
With Grey Trousers
A black shirt paired with tailored grey trousers has an instant polish. Choose a lightweight wool fabric that drapes nicely and opt for a straight or tapered leg trouser. Avoid anything too skinny or fashion-forward for the office.
With An Unstructured Blazer
An unstructured blazer in light grey or navy blue works well with a black shirt in a business context. An unstructured blazer has less padding and inner construction, creating a softer silhouette that appears more casual.
Night Out Style
When going out after dark, a black shirt takes on a cooler, edgier vibe. You can play with textures and colors to create dimension.
With Black Jeans
A black denim and black shirt combo is a foolproof choice. Stick to solid black jeans with minimal distressing. Choose a black shirt made of a material with some texture or sheen, like silk or satin.
With An Interesting Jacket
Have some fun with your black shirt and experiment with layering by adding an interesting jacket, like a black leather moto jacket. You can also try a colored jacket in a vibrant shade.
Styling Tips for Women
For women, black shirts offer that elusive ability to be simultaneously chic, sexy, and utterly practical. Dress it up with silky cami layers or down with your favorite pair of jeans.
Creating Defined Silhouettes
A simple way to look instantly polished with a black top is to tuck it neatly into bottoms that cinch and define your silhouette.
With Black Trousers
A black blouse tucked into tailored black trousers emanates confidence and sophistication. Cropped cigarette pants or wide leg pants both work beautifully.
With Pencil Skirts
Pencil skirts make an elegant pairing with a fitted black top, especially when tucked in. Try knee-length or midi lengths. Pair with pointy pumps for work or switch to flats on the weekend.
Feminine Touches
You don't have to lose your feminine style to rock a black shirt. Incorporate romantic accents through your bottoms, shoes or jewelry.
With A Midi Skirt
Temper the severity of a black top with the playfulness of a flowing midi skirt. Choose sheer fabrics decorated with polka dots or florals. Twirl away!
With Dangly Earrings
Dangly sparkly earrings instantly lend a touch of whimsy next to an otherwise simple black shirt. Go for shoulder-grazing styles if you really want to glam it up.
More Styling Considerations
Keep these additional tips in mind when piecing together outfits with your black shirt.
Contrast Colors and Patterns
Place colors and patterns next to solid black judiciously for maximum effect. For example, pair with white jeans, a red leather moto jacket, or a shirt with a bold graphic. Basic black makes colors seem more vibrant by contrast.
Play with Proportion
Create visual interest by playing with mixed proportions in your outfit. For instance, balance an oversized slouchy black tee with a fitted mini skirt. Or offset the looseness of wide leg trousers with a slim-fitting black shirt neatly tucked in.
Accessorize Creatively
Accessorize in creative ways with jewelry, bags, shoes, and hats that have unique shapes, textures, colors or details. A sculptural cuff bracelet or textured handbag are accessories that can turn your simple black shirt into a real fashion statement.
Conclusion
A black shirt may seem like a basic wardrobe staple, but with thoughtful styling it can be transformed into distinctive high fashion. By paying attention to fit, proportion and the pairing of colors, patterns and accessories, both men and women can craft polished, pulled-together looks perfect for any occasion, day or night. Allow your personal style shine through by having fun and experimenting with the versatility of black shirts.
