Black was especially prevalent in the early '90s, when designers such as Donna Karan, Calvin Klein and Giorgio Armani used it to create understated, recession-era looks.
"People were into privacy," Harmon said. "In black, you can hide out and blend in. Now there's a feeling that you're not expressing yourself or being personalized if you wear only black."
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With fall fast approaching, people's wardrobes often fade to black--although charcoal gray is being touted as the season's "in" color. Navy and taupe also are seen as new neutral shades.
But La Galleria already has narrow black skirts with side slits, strapless cocktail jackets, black coats with matching dresses and black pantsuits.
Look too, O'Hanian said, for black lace overlays over flesh-toned or lighter-colored fabrics and iridescent shades of black blended with burgundy or other hues this fall.
"You're still in the black family, but it's more interesting," she said.
On the other hand, if you're adding an investment piece to your wardrobe, solid black still may be the best choice.
"If you're buying a wonderful cashmere shawl by Gucci for $695, get black because it does go with everything," Harmon said.
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But keep in mind that not all shades of black are equal. Some have a green, gray or brown tint, O'Hanian said. Designers also use slightly different shades of black with a subtle herringbone or shadow stripe to make the color their own and "keep us motivated" to buy their clothes, she says. When trying to mix one designer's black jacket with a skirt from another line, she recommends checking the garments in the sunlight to make sure the colors match.
And if you're still determined to wear all black, O'Hanian advised lightening the look with jewelry. Gold, silver, pewter, large pins and pearl chokers can keep black from draining the face of color.
"Black is flattering, and most people can wear it. But after a certain time in life it needs to be softened," O'Hanian said. "A lot of women over 50 don't want a lot of black around their face. It makes shadows. They need to soften with a fun scarf, jewelry or neckpieces.
"Nobody wants all black."
