The case for & against black

If you're familiar with colour analysis and the information that's out there, you'll probably hear a lot about black: that it's not universally flattering, that it's overused and to be avoided, that it only really suits a small proportion of people, and so on.

I tend to take a more flexible approach.

Yes it's true that, up right next to the face, black is not the best colour for everyone. It's the purest, darkest absence of colour, and can be a little draining on lighter skin tones and a bit blah on dark skintones. It also can be a bit drab and boring - even depressing - as it is used as a safe option by so many people, especially in the winter when it is already so dark and grey in this part of the world.

However, used in the right way it can also be a useful and stylish option for those who want or need it still. For one thing it's readily available and easy to find. It's also very practical in terms of hiding stains (mums of young kids, anyone?!). And sometimes it's the easiest neutral to pair with colours when you don't know what else to wear, especially if you are just getting started with your colour palette. If you have a chic, classic or edgy style preference, it can also be a way of conveying that.

All I would recommend is to keep black to a minimum for when you really need it or it really works for a particular style or outfit, and do your best to wear your colours and neutrals the rest of the time, as this will create a beautiful picture of harmony around you and will bring a lot more interest and change from the usual black and grey everywhere you go.

Here are some more tips for wearing black if it's not your best colour:

• Try to avoid having it right up to your face, and rather break it up either with a neckline that shows some skin or with scarf in a great colour.

• Keep it on the bottom half and have your best colours on your upper body.

• Try not to have a column of black on your body all the way down to your feet. If you need to wear black on top and bottom, try to have a different colour shoe, especially if you have medium to light hair tones (wearing a similar depth tone to your hair will also create a lovely connection back up to your face).

• If you want to wear a single black item let it be a truly fabulous style on you.

Even if black is a great colour on you, try to also wear your actual colours, even if it's just an accessory or pop of lipstick. It will give you a boost and also breathe life and colour to the world around you!