Back to Black
Basic black essentials for your wardrobe and life
Hello, Gorgeous!
I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving (if indeed it is a holiday you observe).
The weekend roundup today is a wink to Black Friday and will include some not so basic items to help everything else pop.
What can I say, I’m a native New Yorker and while I love bright colors, the vast majority of my wardrobe is still basic black.
Incidentally, if you’re a PR friend, check out the Black Friday deal I posted.
Moving right along.
Black wardrobe + lifestyle basics
Ultra high rise flare yoga pants
After feasting for an entire day, or sitting in a car or airplane for endless hours, you definitely need pants that both forgive and flatter. I love these Athleta ultra high rise flare yoga pants that have a nice flare so they can be worn with boots. They are also so so so soft and have a super comfortable waistband (it really doesn’t pinch), are seam-free and have a drop-in pocket. And that high waist covers pretty much everything. Also, if you’re not into black for everything, they have some lovely deep green, brown or burgundy shades as well. ($119, Athleta.com, though they seem to be on sale right now).
Dazzle Dry Nail Lacquer in Midnight Express
I’m a huge fan of Dazzle Dry for so many reasons, most especially since the color stays true and almost always lasts for more than a week. It looks like gel, but doesn’t destroy your nails post-mani. Dazzle Dry also lasts for about 10 days without losing any of its luster. If you’ve never used Dazzle Dry products, there’s a bit of a learning curve. You can only use DD base and top coat, and for best results, apply two base coats. If you’re curious, they have a nice Black Friday special on a starter kit in Deep Wine. It also includes Revive, which will perk up your nails after a few days. (Full size Dazzle Dry $22, on Amazon).
Black boots with cute detailing
Reader, I ordered these.
If you’ve never worn Ariat boots, you’re in for a treat. Ariat’s Fatbaby styles (these are Chelsea) have a bit more width and heft than the brand’s traditional cowboy styling. There’s room to wear them with comfy socks. The loop in front and back make them easy to pull on and off. One thing made me slightly uncomfortable though in terms of branding. This style is a bit reminiscent of Blundstone boots iconic styles. ($109 on Bootbarn.com, but you can probably find them on sale as well).
A waterproof bag with a removable wristlet
There are two types of people out there: Those who have been wearing Baggallini for years, and those who just discovered the brand. Baggallini (founded by a former flight attendant) is the brand that thinks of everything for you. Want to find a handbag that protects your data while you’re traveling? Baggallini bags feature RFID-blocking technology. Need an extra pocket? It’s already on your bag. Want to detach a wristlet for for phone and ID on nights out? Same, girl. same. (On sale for Black Friday at half price $43.95, on Amazon).
More black scrunchies
Am I the only person still rejoicing that scrunchies are back for good? Doubtful, since so many brands now create their own versions. If you love silk scrunchies, Blissy has a trio worth trying. They’re made of Mulberry Silk so they protect against breakage or frizz, but they slide out of extra fine hair! (On sale now for about $30 on Amazon).
Oh. And almost all black tights are now reduced on Target. I just stocked up.
So, am I the only one who feels underdressed if I’m not wearing head-to-toe black? Let’s discuss in the comments.
Rachel, Your beauty concierge 💋