The Big Black Dress

It was Chanel who made the little black dress famous in 1926 and changed the image of black from old to young. Ever since black clothing has made a statement for youth, from the beatniks, to the Goths, to Project Runway.

But before Chanel, what we might call the “big black dress” was the monopoly of older women. This was the wardrobe staple of women over fifty. According to a 1902 article in Ladies Home Journal, “A gown of black silk for an elderly lady is always in good style for either an afternoon, evening, or house gown. One is never at a loss for something to wear when a black silk is among one’s possessions.” The magazines are filled with drawings of appropriate black clothing, cut for the aging figure.

Today’s fashion journals and commentators often advise against black for older women, warning that it can be too harsh against older skin. But perhaps this advice is partly based on the assumption that black is for the young. I say: one good turn deserve another. Take back the black!