Paint it Black

Black is back in a big way this fall, even though for most of us, it never left. Designers are re-interpreting black in new ways, and after a couple seasons of boho and hippie chic, the little black dress looks refreshingly simple. Black is not only ideal for minimalism, however, it can be perfect for romantic, gothic, sexy, or sporty looks. It is all things to all people.

"Black is the supreme colour, synthesis and sum of all colours," according to Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana, whose most recent show featured black-clad models on a shiny black patent cat-walk. "For us, it represents absolute elegance and Mediterranean beauty: black is the colour worn by southern women when they go to church, black are the lace bras that peek out of low necklines and black are the stockings that wrap around your legs, outlining rather than hiding them."

Of course, nothing is as classic as the Little Black Dress. Elegant and sexy at the same time, women have been aware of the power of the "LBD" since Coco Chanel. And who doesn't remember Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's? Or, at the other end of the spectrum, Elizabeth Hurley's safety-pinned Versace number? Here's a few great little black dresses from the fall runways:

Both of these are suitable for many different occasions, but they also have something special about them - they may be basic black, but they are certainly not boring. The top one is Versace, and it could be accessorized 101 ways, and can even be worn during the day. The bottom one is a romantic Valentino piece, which combines the sleekness of black with a bit of Victorian girlishness. There were also some amazing black coats on the fall runways:

This full-length Balenciaga would be stunning all winter, over everything from jeans and a cashmere turtleneck to a slinky satin evening dress. And we can't forget accessories: when wearing all or mostly black, its nice to add some color in the form of subtle metallics or other neutrals. Black with brights is just too eighties for the somber styles of this fall.

Designers also showed lots of black accessories, from a reissue of the classic Chanel 2.55 (the original little black bag) to Calvin Klein's sexy mary jane stilettos. Finally there was lots of black (from plastic to onyx) jewelry, which gave everything a bit of a gothic or an exotic touch.

With all the variations on everyone's favorite (non)color, the fall runway offerings have something for all of us, from a classic black suit to flowy, lacy blouses. Just remember, when in doubt, wear black.