Steal: Basic Black Wardrobe Essentials

--By Kim Moshtaghi

Bebe Tailored Strapless Dress
$129.00
Available at: bebe.com

Black is the color of sophistication and class, with a hint of sass. I can’t think of a time when I thought someone didn’t look good in black-- that’s the beauty of it. It cuts everyone slack by being unbelievably slimming. The movie Breakfast at Tiffany’s proves how stunning a plain black dress can be. It never disappoints when it comes to looking well put together and fancy. That’s why, when you need a quick cocktail dress or an evening gown, it’s always a safe bet to choose something black. Therefore, I have chosen three black pieces of clothing that will make your closet more reliable when you need a quick pick for an evening out.

Bebe’s new arrivals are pretty impressive. There are tons of black items to choose from for the fall. There is one dress in particular that caught my eye. It’s a very sophisticated strapless black dress that is tailored to show off curves with a mysterious twist. The Bebe Tailored Light Strapless Dress has a V-cut out on the top front of the dress, and the light padded bodice helps create some extra top curves. To accentuate the waist in addition to the top padding, the dress has an empire waist, and a perfectly matching skinny fabric belt. Although, Bebe classifies this as a “party” dress, I beg to differ. I think it can be pearled up to give it an Audrey Hepburn classic look, or partied up by some bangles and high stilettos. Whatever you choose, I’m sure it will be hot!

Lauren by Ralph Lauren Kelby Skirt
$79.50
Available at: macys.com

I covered a sexy dress, and that’s made me want to look for something that’s purpose is to cover up! I found just that in this trendy and fun Boyfriend Jacket from Express. I love Boyfriend jackets because they can be worn casually with a pair of jeans or they can be worn over some flirty white boot legged pants. But, typically, it’s more of a casual looking blazer. It portrays a hip attitude by being extra long and can be conveniently thrown on with everything. This is a jacket that would be great kept in the car, in case you need it when it gets breezy.

Breezy or not, you always need a nice black skirt handy. Whether you wear it to the office, or to a luncheon you want to make sure you have a high quality black skirt around. Black skirts are an item of clothing you shouldn’t go cheap on. This Lauren by Ralph Lauren Kelby Straight Skirt is only $79.50! That’s a great deal for a sleek designer skirt. The skirt is simple with flair: it has an attached thick leather buckle detail at the waist of the skirt. The belt pulls the look together, especially when you wear it with a tucked in shirt.
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Kim Moshtaghi is a contributing writer for Adventures in the Stiletto Jungle. Born in Germany, Kim is currently based in sunny Del Mar, California, where she also serves as Stiletto Jungle's Director of Sales and Promotions. Kim has a communications degree, a third degree black belt, and a totally covetable Gucci handbag collection.