7 All-Black Outfits That'll Always Make You Look Like You've Made an Effort

Walk down any British high street, and a sea of all-black outfits will present itself in an instant. However, just because there are plenty of jet-black ensembles populating the pavements, it doesn't mean they're automatically great. Every girl with a fashion pulse—aka you, dear reader—knows all too well that the success of a black outfit lies in the details. Whether that's down to carefully curated fabric contrasts or a strong focus on interesting silhouettes, there's an art to pulling together those seemingly simple getups that minimalists (and we've noticed, in particular, London women) do so well.

Now seems as good a time as any to revisit the all-black outfit and seek out the modern iterations that can make your wardrobe's trustiest basics come to life once more. What are the subtle all-black outfit tweaks that can throw you into the limelight and into newness? We have answers. Whether it's the addition of a sleek hat with a black jumper or lace-details on the trusty LBD, with the help of 7 stylish women, we've decoded some fast-track outfit formulas to add extra power to your black ensembles. And we've pointed out the key items that make them stand out—from the technical jacket to the skinny black trousers. Keep reading to see the standout looks in question.

1. Leather Jacket + Jeans + Ballet Flats

Style Notes: A timeless investment, the leather jacket will be one you reach for time and time again. While a biker is of course always a winner, this season it's all about the sleeker, more polished looking fuss-free versions—so of course we love how Lois has kept hers the centre of attention with black trousers and mesh flats.

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2. Blouse + Skinny Trousers + Heels

Style Notes: Anouk—along with so many other stylish women—have called it: black cigarette pants are back. Loved by French women, this skinny style gives a whole new look to a nice top and trousers pairing. And expect to see this pillbox hat style everywhere for autumn/winter 2025.

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3. Fitted Blazer + Maxi Skirt + Gloves

Style Notes: No doubt you already own a black blazer, but with cinched waist details being key this season, it's time to replenish your collection. Make like Sylvie and wear a fitted style with a column maxi skirt for the chicest silhouette.

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4. Lace Dress + Heels

Style Notes: The black dress has never failed us, so why would we not rely on it for upcoming party season once again? With lace details taking over, any slip dress like Hannah's will be the belle of the ball.

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5. Technical Jacket + Capri Pants + East West Bag

Style Notes: Function rarely meets fashion, so when it does, grab hold of it. Technical windbreaker style jackets are everywhere right now, and we love how Sarah has styled hers with capri pants, black wedges (these would also be swapped for ballet flats) and an East-West bag.

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6. Leather Bomber + Full Skirt + Sunglasses

Style Notes: There's something about a voluminous skirt paired with a more fitted jacket or top that just works. Need further proof? Take a look at Danielle in this black balloon style work with a cropped leather jacket. We would just add heels for an alternative party outfit.

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7. V-Neck Jumper + Tailored Trousers + Pillbox Hat

Style Notes: Everyone should have a premium black knit in their collection, and we love the look of it worn slightly oversized over baggy black trousers—just like Marilyn. And see, we told you this is the new hat shape for autumn/winter 2025.

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