Do you find yourself gravitating towards dark hues whenever you open your closet? If so, you're not alone. Many people find black to be a timeless, versatile, and effortlessly chic color. It's a wardrobe staple that can be dressed up or down, and it always looks sleek and sophisticated.
In this article, we've curated a list of 23 essential black pieces that every fashion-forward individual should have in their wardrobe. From classic basics to trendy statement pieces, these items will help you elevate your style and express your love for the color black. Whether you're heading to a formal event, a casual outing, or simply running errands, there's something on this list to suit your every need.
So let's dive in and discover the 23 must-have black pieces that will complete your wardrobe and make you feel confident and stylish.
1. A one-shoulder tiered midi dress, a super on-trend style that elevates the simple, "normal" two-shoulder dress. No one is gonna give you the cold shoulder when you're rocking this dress.
Promising review: "I bought this dress on a whim. Glad I did bc it has turned out to be my 'go-to' summer dress. I've worn it for brunch, barbecues, and dinner. The top smocking molds to my body and the skirt is flowy. The fabric is light and not fussy to launder. Just wash in cold water and hang to dry. It does not wrinkle excessively making ironing optional. Ideal for traveling. Very happy with this buy." —Atelopus
Get it from Amazon for $46.99 (available in sizes XS–XXL and 35 colors/patterns).
2. A pair of casual cotton linen overalls with a comfy loose fit so you can pair it with a long sleeve for those cooler days or a short sleeve for warmer days without having to worry about that uncomfortable feeling of trying to pull tight pants over your partially sweaty legs. 😖
Promising review: "I just wanted these for kicking around in the garden and they have worked great for that...so I own three pairs now. They're lightweight and good for warmer days." —C. Zittel
Get them from Amazon for $27.99 (available in sizes S–3XL and 17 colors).
3. A two-piece satin set that'll have everyone's jaw dropping whether you're walking into brunch, date night, or even a wedding. And this is basically three outfits in one since you can wear it as a set or pair each piece with something else.
Promising review: "This outfit is perfect for a concert, date night, or out for dinner. The fabric is cool and lightweight for these warm summer nights. The fabric has a gentle give to fit your curves nicely. I like that it is a two-piece because of the versatility of the top. I can pair it with slacks or jeans for a weekend trip! I would love to have this same outfit in another color!" —Adelaide R.
Get it from Amazon for $39.99 (available in sizes S–XXL and 11 colors).
4. A pair of TikTok-viral cargo pants so you can finally have some pants with loaaads of pockets instead of two (if you're lucky… 👀 looking @ you fake pockets). These have the perfect oversized fit that'll have you reaching for them basically daily.
Check out a TikTok of the cargo pants.
Yes, these are technically men's pants, but women reviewers are loving them and the way they fit. I would recommend heading to the reviews to see what men's size people who are a similar women's size are buying.
Promising review: "I saw these on TikTok, and I LOVE them. They fit so well. I'm 5'4" and 130 pounds. I got a size 29, and they fit perfectly. Loose, but not too loose, and extremely comfy. They come down just below the ankle, so they'd pair perfectly with a pair of Jordans or Dunks. Also comes with an adjustable tie on the waist to fit as you need, same around the ankle." —annabella Gambone
Get them from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in men's sizes 27–44 and 45 colors).
5. A backless retro-inspired one-piece swimsuit that'll have everyone around asking you what thrift shop you found this gorgeous piece at. (Yeah…Amazon qualifies…right?)
Promising review: "First I want to say that I RARELY write reviews but I am doing so in the hopes that others with my body type (short, plus-sized, AND top-heavy) will find this useful. This particular swimsuit is very well made! The colors are as vibrant as the picture, the material is thick like a typical swimsuit, and the breast area's lining feels as though it is doubled up. I was pleasantly surprised with the amount of coverage that I got. The bottom is full coverage if you don't have much 'under cheek' as I like to call it. I will probably be ordering from them again! 😉" —VA_Gurl
Get it from Amazon for $29.99 (available in sizes S–3XL, two styles, and 21 colors/patterns).
6. An everyday shoulder bag so you can keep your phone, lipgloss, wallet, and other essentials close to you at all times. The crocodile pattern vegan-leather is just the cherry on top of your cute 'fit.
JW Pei is an Asian-, family-owned brand with minimalist purses that are made with sustainable vegan materials.
Promising review: "It’s so cute and good quality for the price!! I can fit everything I need (wallet, keys, hand sanitizer, and iPhone XMAX). I love it so much I just ordered it again in a different color!!!" —Harley Robinson
Get it from Amazon for $58.99 (available in 13 colors/patterns).
7. A pair of high-waisted biker shorts that are the perfect combination of the comfort of leggings with the ~airiness~ of shorts. Just throw these on with any top and you'll have yourself a 'lil trendy outfit.
Promising review: "I love these. I love to wear them hiking and around the house but also under skirts. The pockets are what set these apart!" —ShellBell8
Get it from Amazon for $16.99+ (available in sizes XS–3XL, three lengths, and 38 colors).
8. A pair of lightweight athletic shorts perfect for exercising in, or not, we don't judge. With a wide leg opening and pockets (!! that actually fit your phone and not just one single key or like a couple of dollar bills), these will be your new fave pair of shorts.
Promising review: "If you haven’t purchased yet, go ahead and do it right now! These are the comfiest running shorts. I’ve got bigger hips/butt which makes finding running shorts a tad harder. Other popular brands feel restrictive, but these have an extra give to them. They come up a little higher than most running short, which I love, Even with them coming up higher, they do not look too short or like booty shorts. I’ve already ordered three additional pairs." —Haley LeBarron
Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in sizes XS–3XL and 19 colors).
9. An extremely popular jumpsuit with a cinched waistline to make you look super put together even though this outfit required zero thought and no time wasted trying to find a shirt to match your pants. Reviewers love throwing this on for running errands or even for a brunch date.
Promising review: "Made very well. Nice breathable fabric that isn’t too thick/heavy but also isn’t cheap or too thin. It’s very soft, lightweight, flows nicely. Nice quality. I’m always extremely skeptical about elastic waists because they can kill a look; I was ECSTATIC to find that this isn’t your average elastic waist. It gathers just enough to give definition between torso and hips and isn’t even close to being too tight or snug around the waist...heavenly turnout. Seriously, I was so excited. The off-shoulder neckline is sexy and feminine, and living in Arizona, between having a shoulder exposed and putting my hair up, it makes me feel 50% cooler in the hot temps. Love it." —Holly
Get it from Amazon for $37.99 (available in sizes S–3XL and 32 colors).
10. A stretchy "freezer dress" made with moisture-wicking fabric, temperature-regulating technology, and UPF 30 sun protection, so you can feel confident wearing this outside in the heat even if you have the tendency to overheat no matter what you wear.
Promising review: "This dress is SO comfy! Looks great as a casual dress and just as great as any 'dressy' dress. I love the feel of the material. Even on a hot day, it is very comfortable and doesn't stick to you." —Zuumn
Get it from Amazon for $55 (available in sizes XS–3X and a variety of colors/patterns).
11. A one-shoulder crop top because two straps are soo last season. All you have to do is throw on some pants or a skirt and this top will instantly elevate your look and make you look stylish as heck (even if you're not the trendiest person out there).
Promising review: "Love this!! Just came in the mail today. Wearing it to lunch with a pair of high waisted jeans. Feeling super fresh and the quality pleasantly surprised me." —Jack Clark
Get it from Amazon for $9.99 (available in sizes XS–XL and 20 colors).
12. A pair of sandals quuuuuite similar to Birkenstocks, but these will cost you literally 1/2 the price. With adjustable straps, you can customize these to make them fit perfectly to your foot.
Promising review: "I LOVE these sandals and have bought them in different colors. I was reluctant at first because my feet are very narrow, but a size 7 fit me exactly as my other size 7 shoes do. The buckles are also adjustable for those with narrow or wide feet. They are super comfortable and provide a good amount of arch support. I used to get hip pain from walking in flip flops, but I haven't had it since I've worn these. I really love the variety of colors and how they go with shorts, sundresses, or even jeans. I wear them when I'm gardening, as house slippers, and going out. I would highly recommend these sandals, especially because of how cheap they are compared to many other shoes." —Kat Platt
Get it from Amazon for $21.24+ (available in sizes 6–11 and a variety of colors).
13. A silky satin midi skirt you can wear so many different ways. Seriously — just look at all the reviewer's different 'fits below. The flowy silhouette and elastic waistband will make you forget you're wearing a cute skirt and not your fave pair of sweatpants.
Promising review: "This skirt is absolutely stunning! The quality is amazing for the price. I’ve bought similar skirts at other stores that are $60+ but this one is the best I’ve owned. You won’t regret it!" —Abby
Get it from Amazon for $34.99+ (available in sizes S–XL and 20 colors).
14. A sleek knit halter crop top you can pair with a flowy skirt or with some leggings, whatever vibe you're going for today.
Promising review: "New favorite wardrobe piece. I absolutely love this top. It’s perfect without a bra, and I’ve paired it with skirts and high-waisted pants to the receipt of many compliments. My only regret is I didn’t buy it in every color." —Blair
Get it from Amazon for $17.20+ (available in sizes XXS–5X and 12 colors).
15. A chic tank and wide-leg pants set so you can look perfectly put together without any thought. There's truly nothing better than having a stylish outfit that doesn't take 20 minutes to pick out because you cant decide if you actually like that top with those pants.
Promising review: "I absolutely love this set. I have it in two colors. It is comfortable, washes well, and is extremely stylish. I get compliments on it all the time. I rarely purchase clothes from Amazon. I decided to give it a shot and this one knocked it out of the park. Every time I wear it, I get asked where it's from. Other people can't believe it's from Amazon. It's a must purchase and wardrobe staple." —Michael
Get it from Amazon for $41.99 (available in sizes S–XXL and 26 colors).
16. A drawstring bodycon dress perfect to wear on its own or to layer under a jean or leather jacket. The drawstrings make it customizable since you can adjust them to find the perfect length for you.
Promising reviews: "I finally bought this dress after seeing it all over TikTok and HOLY SMOKES. I cannot believe how universally good it looks on people. It's absolutely stunning!" —Catherine Thriveni
"This dress is amazing! The fabric is so soft and silky but also has structure and because the sides are ruched, I can adjust it to the perfect length, which means a lot when you're only 5'1". The ruching allows me to control the amount of fabric gathered in the tummy and behind areas. To sum it all up, I LOVE the dress and plan on purchasing at least two more in the army green and the brown because this style dress can also be worn in the fall and spring months with a basic or colored denim jacket and a cute pair of boots or booties!" —Tonya
Get it from Amazon for $30.99 (available in sizes S–XL and 24 colors/styles).
17. A midi skirt and tank set with a tie detail in the front that's perfect for dinner with friends, a night at the club, or a romantic beach stroll. And depending how you wear it you can choose how much (if any) midriff you wanna show off.
My colleague Kayla Boyd has this and says, "I love a matching set because it takes most of the work out of putting an outfit together. And this one is such a great deal! I love how comfy and easy it is to wear. I was concerned about it being see-through, but it wasn't! It has a stretchy waist and a cute tie detail in the front of the skirt. For spring days, I just throw a denim jacket over it. And, of course, I plan to wear it all summer as well. I would 100% buy more colors in this — and there are so many to choose from!"
Promising review: "Absolutely LOVE this! I want to order a few more in different colors! It’s stylish — dress it up or wear it casual! I got lots of compliments. Very comfortable and soft. Moves nicely with the body! Very cool-looking top!" —Jules
Get it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in sizes XL–5XL and 30 colors/prints).
18. An organza dress so versatile you could wear it three days in a row on top of different pieces and no one would even realize you're secretly an outfit repeater. Seriously this thing is stunning and it's sure to become a staple in your wardrobe.
P.S. you can also grab a plain black slip to wear underneath!
Promising review: "I use this with a simple silk undergarment of the same color...From being a beach coverup for a casual and refreshing dress for the hotter days. Size up if you have bigger arms or large breasts as it doesn’t have any stretch to it at all." —Joan Espinoza-Gonzalez
Get it from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in sizes XS–3XL and two colors).
19. And an organza-sleeve bodysuit that is a showstopper. The polka dots on the arms and the flared cuffs just add to this piece. Wear this out once and everyone who passes you will think you are a true fashion icon.
Promising review: "I was surprised at how great this looks and feels! The lace isn’t itchy at all, the bodysuit is super soft, and I love that it has three snaps across; it makes it so I don’t end up with a wedgie! Love it! Getting white next. 😍" —Colleen
Get it from Amazon for $28.99 (available in sizes XXS–3X and 36 colors/styles).
20. A slip dress so chic and trendy you'll feel like an off duty model whenever you throw it on. Get creative with accessories or keep it simple, either way, you'll feel like you're walking a runway in this piece.
BuzzFeed Shopping editor Elizabeth Lilly has this and says, "I've worn the hell out of this dress since buying it in 2019(?) Here, I was dressed for rooftop aperitivos in Rome and have worn it on a number of occasions when I wanted to be as comfy as if I were in PJs, while looking as if I'm dressed for anything but going to sleep. I bought it again in deep red on Black Friday 2022. And then bright red and mint in 2023! It's THAT good. Plus, a slip dress layers very well with cardigans, jackets, shawls, and even tops over it."
Get the dress on the left from Aritzia for $118 (available in sizes 2XS–2XL and 17 colors).
21. A strapless mesh bustier because corsets are all the rage rn but obvi you can't get a traditional one cause you still wanna stand out from the crowd! The ruched mesh fabric is so gorgeous no one is gonna believe this is from Amazon (and under $35)!
Promising review: "I purchased this corset after watching a TikTok video of another mid-sized girl talking about how great it is. It did not disappoint! It fits nicely. I got lots of compliments on it! Someone else pointed out to me that the fabric looks expensive and just like another bustier listed on PrettyLittleThings for over twice the price." —Elizabeth
Get it from Amazon for $34.99 (available in sizes 00–20 and 15 colors).
22. A fitted button-up vest for a lil spin on business casual. The cropped fit is perfect for pairing with high-waisted bottoms and you'll feel like a big boss man strutting around in this.
Promising review: "Super super cute. True to size, not stretchy, not super heavy fabric. Withstood 95° degree weather just fine!" —Alexis Millsaps
Get it from Amazon for $26.98 (available in sizes S–XL and 17 colors).
23. A classic Levi's faux leather biker jacket for all my edgy girlies who wanna look cool while staying warm. All the zippers and belt details are truly chef's kiss. 👩🏼🍳😘
Promising reviews: "This is a fantastic jacket. So cute and fits perfectly true to size. I love, love, love it. It’s comfy and soft and just awesome." —SFC
"SUUUUPER CUTE. I have to say I am very pleasantly surprised with how much I absolutely LOVE this little jacket. I bought it solely for fashion purposes, but it's actually really comfortable. Very lightweight. Feels amazing on. Feels durable. I am contemplating buying another one in a different color." —Alex Bogherie
Get it from Amazon for $59.99+ (available in sizes XS–4X and 42 colors/styles).