The dark side of summer: 5 hot looks that make black rock
There is a wealth of moody-hued yet lightweight frocks, tops, jackets and shorts giving their white and pastel counterparts a run for their money this season.
<strong>BLACK SWAN</strong> <br> Actress Julia Voth, star of the sitcom Package Deal, strikes a darker note in a black sleeveless top with flared tutu-like ruffles. <br> Black J. Mendel wool-crepe trousers, $1,450 (U.S.) and black J. Mendel silk-organza top.Norman Wong
<strong>SHEER JOY</strong> <br> Forget white: You’ll be the talk of the garden party in a sexy black frock with alluringly transparent skirting. <br> Black Emilio Pucci embroidered-chiffon gown, $8,990 at Holt Renfrew, Tom Ford wedge sandals, $2,790, Vanessa Lianne brass lace ring, $65, and brass stacking rings, $40.Norman Wong
<strong>SHORT ORDER</strong> <br> Bermudas are fine for the cottage: These Prabal Gurung shorts, beneath a jacket and tunic by the same designer, are city chic at its best. <br> Steel-blue Prabal Gurung silkdégradé jacket, $2,775, black silk-chiffon tunic, price upon request, steel-blue silk-dégradé shorts, $1,195 at The Room at The Bay. Fendi ankle-strap pumps, $765 at Holt Renfrew.Norman Wong
<strong>IN THE NAVY</strong> <br> A dark blue skirt by Vionnet more than stands up to an inky black blouse; the peppy yellow train adds a hint of sunshine. <br> Black Tom Ford silk-georgette blouse, $1,450 (U.S.). Navy Vionnet skirt, $1,131 (U.S.), Soshannah sandals, $120 at Aldo. Vanessa Lianne hammered-brass stacking rings, $40 each, Camille brass stacking rings, $45.Norman Wong
<strong>JACKET ART</strong> <br> Voth rocks a sophisticated cotton-crepe blazer, belted at the waist and paired with a lightweight skirt. <br> Black cotton-crepe roll-sleeve tuxedo jacket, $1,300 at Max Mara. Black skirt, $97 at BCBGMAXAZRIA. Paulina sandals, $100 at Aldo. Links of London 18-carat yellow-gold bangle, $3,395 at select Holt Renfrew stores.Norman Wong