“Black all by itself is luxury!” No truer words have been uttered in the English language. There’s a reason why the color black has transcended trends. It is an achromatic color. Meaning it’s without any hues like grey or white and it’s devoid of light. It is classic, timeless and effortless. 

When I wear black, I feel enveloped in armor that makes me feel confident, beautiful, bold, and unstoppable. That’s probably why half my closet is filled with black pieces that ran the gamut – from basics to statements. I go as far as buying the black versions of beloved items just because I know I’ll get more wear out of them throughout the year. The pleated skirt is one such piece I own in several colors yet I reach for the black version time and time again. 

I’ve had this black pleated skirt for four years now. It was a $25 skirt I found at Target. It’s served me well in the past few years and I must say it has paid for itself in the plethora of outfit combinations I’ve been able to get out of it. I often reach for this black pleated skirt when I don’t want to think too hard about what to wear for a last-minute meeting or event. 

For drinks this weekend, I restyled this outfit, last seen here, with different accessories to make it current. My ruffled black H&M sweater served as the perfect accompaniment to the pleated skirt. For a dressier aesthetic, I typically pair my skirts with statement tops, which end up making a $25 skirt look like a million bucks. A styling trick for thicker sweaters with longer hems: wear it untucked but still cinch your waist with a belt to create a more feminine silhouette. 

Black and gold is unequivocally THE combo and it just works. This is my secret sauce for effortless yet stylish dressing. There’s never been an instance where this color combo has led me astray. I added gold accessories from Zara and Julie Vos plus a statement shoe by Jimmy Choo for a standout style. These gold Jimmy Choo Cierra cap-toe pumps were the perfect pair to complete my power dressing. I finished off with a structured double-breasted coat by Eloquii and my new Celine Medium Triomphe bag. 

A pleated skirt and a statement sweater should be part of your timeless capsule wardrobe and I’ve perused my favorite shops for alternatives to my look. Shop them below.