Flattering colours: black as the base plus one accent colour
Black is the safe choice in many wardrobes. It goes with almost everything and looks calm and elegant. An outfit entirely in black can also look severe, though. One simple principle adds variety: black as the base plus exactly one accent colour. In this guide we show you how to apply this principle in plus sizes, which colours work as an accent and where the colour sits best in the outfit.
Which colours are slimming?
This question comes up often, and the honest answer is: no colour changes your body. Colours do change how an outfit comes across, though. Dark shades such as black, anthracite or navy look calm and unified. The same or similar colours from top to bottom create a continuous line where the eye does not stop at an edge. A light or strong colour, on the other hand, draws attention to wherever it is worn.
For choosing your clothes this means: it is not about hiding anything, but about deciding consciously where the eye should go. If you feel good in a colour and enjoy wearing it, it is the right one for you.
Why black is a good base
Black can be combined with any other colour, with soft pastels as well as with strong red or royal blue. If you own a few black basics, you can put them together again and again with different tops.
- Trousers: The black viscose balloon trousers have an elasticated waist and are around 100 cm long. For a shorter option, the black capri trousers with two side pockets are a good choice; they have a loose cut and are around 90 cm long.
- Dresses: The calf-length black jersey dress in viscose jersey has a loose cut, a round neck, short sleeves and a back slit. At around 126 cm long it is a calm surface on which an accent colour really stands out.
You can find more basics in our trousers collection.
The accent colour: one colour, one piece
The rule is simple: choose one colour and wear it in one piece. Two different strong colours in the same outfit compete with each other, while a single colour against a black background looks clear and intentional.
Red: strong and classic
Red is the clearest contrast to black. The red cotton tunic with broderie anglaise is made of 100 % cotton and has an A-line, a round neck and 3/4 flounce sleeves. At around 88 cm long it goes well with black trousers. The broderie anglaise also adds a delicate texture.
Royal blue: fresh and clear
With black, royal blue looks lively but not loud. The royal blue jersey tunic with an off-the-shoulder look has an oversized cut and short sleeves and is around 80 cm long. Because it is shorter, it also works with the balloon trousers.
Petrol: calm and refined
If you prefer something more muted, petrol is a shade between blue and green. The viscose satin tunic with floral print in petrol is made of 100 % viscose, has a subtle sheen and is around 85 cm long. Because the print picks up the colour, it looks harmonious with black.
Where the colour sits changes the effect
The accent colour guides the eye. So it is worth thinking briefly about where you would like to wear it.
- On the top: a coloured tunic with black trousers puts your face at the centre. This is the most classic option.
- As an open layer: a coloured cardigan over a black dress creates two vertical stripes of colour at the sides, while the black surface in between stays visible all the way down. The coral red jacquard cardigan is cut open, oversized in an A-line, has two patch pockets and is around 90 cm long. It is made of 97 % cotton.
- In the details: if you would like to start carefully, use the colour only in a scarf, necklace or bag and keep your clothes entirely black.
You can find more styles in colour in our tunic collection.
Pattern as an accent
A pattern can take on the role of the accent colour. The same rule applies: pattern on top, calm below. A patterned tunic with black trousers looks balanced. If the trousers themselves are patterned, the top is best kept plain. You can read more about matching patterns and colours with a tunic in our guide how to style a tunic.
Three outfits to recreate
- Black with red: red cotton tunic with broderie anglaise, black capri trousers and flat black shoes.
- Black with royal blue: royal blue off-the-shoulder jersey tunic and the black viscose balloon trousers.
- Black with coral red: calf-length black jersey dress with the coral red jacquard cardigan worn open over it.
Which size fits?
According to our size chart, size 1 is intended for German dress sizes 44 to 52 (hip measurement 120 to 146 cm) and size 2 for 54 to 60 (hip measurement 146 to 160 cm). The length of each style is given on the product page. If you have any questions, you can reach us by phone on +49 (0) 30 – 30 20 26 37 or by email at info@lubamoden.de.
Frequently asked questions about colours in plus sizes
Which colours are slimming?
No colour changes your figure. Dark shades and a single colour from top to bottom look calm and create a continuous line. Light and strong colours draw the eye to wherever they are worn.
Can you wear strong colours in plus sizes?
Yes. Strong colours such as red, royal blue or coral red look particularly clear when combined with black and worn in a single piece.
Which colour goes with black?
Almost any. Strong shades such as red and royal blue create a clear contrast, while muted shades such as petrol or dusky pink look calmer.
How many colours should an outfit have?
As a simple rule, black plus one accent colour is enough. Patterns may contain several shades, as long as the rest of the outfit stays calm.
