Back In Black

You're creepy and kooky, and can be mysterious and spooky. And while sometimes you're fashion choices often lean towards the deadful and dreadful, summer's transitional trend into fall is no longer reserved for the Wednesday Addams's of the world.

All-black outfits are making the rounds again as the temperature begins to drop and the leaves begin to change. Spotted walking the streets of Venice Beach, I couldn't help but notice how chic and pulled together my friend Juliana looked in a sheer black t-shirt and classically cut black shorts. I decided that this look was definitely one to mimic, and began patrolling my sources for further inspiration.

Keep from going all spiderwebs and spooks by playing with proportions: short shorts matched with long-sleeved button down oxfords tucked neatly in; a billowy blouse offset by sleek and strappy brown heels; a textured top and ankle-hitting harlem pants. Posh gets the idea with an added bike glove without getting too rocker-chick on us; Kate Bosworth adds a dash to her solid-color ensemble with a pop of pink lipstick. This blank-canvas look easily becomes your own with those kind of special touches; consider a neon belt or signature necklace. Plus with the summer tans we've all been working on for the past four months, the blackest black can only compliment your glow, rather than preen your pallor.

Best of all, is this whole look goes easy on your wallet. Check out my picks below, or raid your own closet for your basic blacks to mix and match! These all-black ensembles really are a scream, even if you're Uncle Fester disagrees.

From top left clockwise: Urban Outfitters Kimchi Blue Chrisscross Sandal (ON SALE!) $19; Urban Outfitters Silence & Noise Cropped Dolman Tee (ON SALE!) $24.99; UO Brass and Leather Bracelet $28; and Forever 21 7 Pocket Denim Short $14.80


From left to right: Forever 21 Looped Rope Necklace $14.80; American Apparel Cotton Spandex Jersey Short Sleeve T-shirt Leotard $28.00; Silence and Noise High Waisted Harem Pant $58.00; Deena & Ozzy Suede Zip Bootie $78.00


From top left clockwise: Lacoste Short-Sleeved Strech Piquéd Polo $79.50 (Macy's); American Apparel Unisex Strech Courdory 5-Pocket Short $44.00; The Limited Skinny Patent Belt $19.50 in Aqua; Forever 21 Cleopatrice Wide Metallic Cuff $8.00

Images from teamsugar, fashion launch page, fashionising.com, and styleontrack.