LBDs may be slimming and chic, but fashion experts warn they can also have unflattering side-effects.
Warning: sartorial shock ahead.
Once considered the most flattering shade on and off the runway, colour consultants are now claiming that wearing black can also have its downside.
UK coulourist Jules Standish warned that black clothing can highlight dark lines under the chin, shadows around the eyes and accentuate any sunken areas of the face, reported UK's
Telegraph.
What's more, dark scarves, hats and polo neck jumpers are said to have the worst 'ageing' effect on the face.
"The majority of...women will not look young and healthy with black against their faces. In fact, it will age their skin tone dramatically," said Standish.
Apparently only one in five of us have the right skin tone to wear it well. This is because those with what's known as a 'warm' complexion (based on yellow, orange and gold tones) will find that wearing black can "flatten" their healthy-looking skin hue -- bringing out darker areas of the face.
Standish argues that women with paler, 'winter' complexions (think Nigella Lawson) tend to be better suited to wearing black.
For the rest of us who are keen to keep our LBDs, there are a few simple tips to avoid the 'black lash'.
• Choose a black top with a plunging neckline so your skin tone will reflect your face.
• Pair black with a colourful scarf, pearls, or gold necklaces if you have a 'warm' skin tone.
• Opt for black dresses that have colour in the top.
Related content
Wear it well: One black dress. 365 DaysStyle inspiration: fashionable flip-throughsTop summer hair stylesHow to Hollywood-ify your lookYour say: Do you think wearing black could age the face?