All Black Everything

"Black cards, black cars, all back everyhing..." Greetings Gentle Readers,

The aforementioned are the words of the immortal Jay-Z and the topic for this posting. Recently, we've noticed a resurgence in this monochromatic aesthetic and decided to take a closer examination at this black out of sorts. The look is simple enough to explain and pull off. It's all black. So, wear all black. As with everything, fit is once again key. Black is probably one of very few colors that can be worn head to toe in the same tone and not look like a crayon, especially for the fellas. One of our favorite things to do with All black is to play with texture. Mixing texture adds adds very stylish layers and airs of sophistication and elegance. Gents, since we'll be focusing on you this time around; Here are 3 ways to add texture to your all black ensembles:

1. Textured Sweaters: Cable knit and other knit sweaters are prime opportunities to do this. the weaving gives your garments some depth, detail, and pattern.
2. Black Denim: As a general rule, stick to black jeans. Black Denim jackets generally aren't the easiest to pull off. A great fitting pair of black jeans however, work with the greatest of ease.
3. Blazers: Blazers come in a variety of materials, and are your safest and most stylish opportunity to add texture to an all black ensemble; Think velvet, wool, ultra-suede, and cotton.

All black is as easy as it is stylish, and just like with other colors, coordination, not "matching" is key. You can also play with tones and hues, and use different blacks in your looks. It doesn't have to be all blue-black, or all washed black, just all black.

Accessory wise... You can pretty much go crazy when rocking all black. Just be aware that if you choose a contrasting accessory scheme, your accessories will make the statement instead of your apparel. Which is fine, if that's what you were going for. Play with pocket squares, neckties, scarves, lapel pins, and even jewelry. Remember, however, that against a monochromatic background, your accessories stand out that much more, and to avoid chaos, moderation is key. Of course, you can also do the total opposite of that, which is what we did for the look we pulled pictured here. The homie Daran needed an all black look for a photo shoot, and rather than tell an accessory story, we decided to keep it crisp and clean. Whatever you decide to do is a matter of taste.

All Black-tie Everything

As the days turn to nights a little sooner and the season approaches to be dressed to the nines, all black is a very elegant evening statement. Gents, here's your opportunity to break out the shawl collar, slim cut option like the one Yeezy's rocking here, and step it up a little. 'Ye pretty much nails the evening all black. A little pattern on the pocket square, a pleated tuxedo shirt, the velvet on the tux slippers, the perfect fit... nuance, style, sophistication, and elegance. This is an excellent modern interpretation of a classic shawl collar tux.

'Ye's look, however, isn't your only option... If you're more traditional, you can go with the peak lapel style of Nick Cannon which also works excellently. It's all a matter of personal taste. Nick's look is a classic satin finished, peak lapel tuxedo, worn with a black dress shirt and accented with a white pocket square and patent leather lace ups. Interestingly enough, both gentlemen have elected to go sans tie, which is a more modern interpretation of classic black tie rules.

Honestly, we'd rock either look. What you choose to use as inspiration is entirely up to you, but both are excellent models. Of course, make sure your fit is right, and you're pretty much good to go.

Accessory wise, we're leaning a little bit more towards Mr. West, but with much respect for Mr. Cannon. Something about the velvet tux slippers speaks to our soul. But, we wholly understand that "it ain't for everybody." Nick's patent lace ups will never lead you astray, and are a go to option in case of doubt or wonder. We also like Kanye's pocket square and the je ne sais quoi with which it is placed. But again, Cannon's crisp white option is perfectly fine as well.

To sum up. Wear all black. It's simple, classic, chic, sophisticated, and stylish. You pretty much can't go wrong. Until next time, we remain...

Stylishly yours,
Sartorially Savvy
"Fashion fades, style is eternal" ~Yves Saint Laurent

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