The evergreen winning combo of black and gold

Coco Chanel said that the best colour in the whole world is the one that looks good on you. While we agree with this any day of the week, there are those well-regarded classic colour combinations like black and gold that never go out of style for anybody.

Even if we date back to the 1900s when women's fashion was neat, covered and detailed with ruffles, buttons and lace in layers; black and gold had an upper hand even there. Georgia Hale, a 20th century silent film artist sported black silk dresses with golden tassels.

"Black and gold is not a colour combination. It's a feeling. A feeling of regality, confidence and boldness. I have always inclined towards black and gold whenever I felt like I needed to make a statement. To this date, it's a non-negotiable colour affair for me," said Hasina Afzal, an 83-year-old fashion enthusiast who still believes there is so much more to explore in the world of colours. 

Photo: Sazzad Ibne Sayed

In the 1920-1940s, the Indian subcontinent had a roaring change in clothing. Chinese silk and georgette were at its prime. Bapsybanno Pavry, a socialite during that era, wore silk saris of gold with black oversized coats. It created a majestic image which in those times, which was rare.

As the world emerged from World War II and The Great Depression, the fashion craze was at its peak. On one side, colonialism had brought forth a western touch where artists played with black skirts, belts, trousers, tops, ethnic wear and so much more. On the other side, industrialisation made the economy boom. People felt the need to feel good, look good.

Marilyn Monroe, a classic fashion icon, sported sequined halter neck golden dress with black stilettos. She never believed in being conventional and this was one of the times she chose to flaunt it.

When Bangladesh got its independence in the 70s, rock was the mood. Silk shirts, print on prints, tinted glasses were all household staples for fashionistas. However, the country was still in its developing stage. On one hand, you would see black velvet sleeveless blouses paired with muslin gold saris under the chandelier and on the other hand, a black cotton kameez with block prints of Bengali letters under the university shelters.

Photo: Sazzad Ibne Sayed

In the 80s and 90s, denim wears, liberty and freedom went hand in hand. Black and gold, on an international and national stage, gained mass hype. From Madonna to Parveen Sultana Diti, all carried this prestigious fashion style to various platforms, movies, concerts etc.

The 20th century marked an era of tech revolution. "Black and Gold? Can't imagine life without it. It's so sleek and easy to carry. No one can ever go wrong with it. My social media posts always get an extra boost when I fashion these two colours together," said Farah Tabassum Aura, an Instagram influencer.

Azmeri Haque Badhon sported a black and gold look at the screening of her internationally recognized film 'Rehana Maryam Noor,' and sealed a most memorable day with those colours. 

The Styling for Black and Gold Combo

Pump it up
Golden and black stilettos are an ideal addition to your shoe collection. Glitter and glam in this colour combination can give your outfit a next level edge. From Lady Gaga to Deepika Padukone, not once has there been an occasion when these power ladies have shied away from flaunting their golden and black pumps with their showstopping outfits. Have a pair of such pumps in your shoe closet to add an extra oomph to a formal award show and even better, a date!

The clutch with a midas touch
If you like sporting saris or salwar kameezs or even dresses that have a hint of glam, we believe you should have a clutch that is your safe bet for such fashion experiments. This too trails from the bond of gold and black. Some of the most commonly used clutches are mini bags, messenger bags, crossbody bags, chain bags etc. Swing it sideways or on your shoulder, it's a fashion statement you just cannot deny. Added with the flair of majestic black and gold, it's a triumph wherever you go.

Assertive neckwear
Jewellery is a woman's friend— think of the choker, a long beach necklace, a layered chain and the list just goes on. One statement piece can instantly jazz up any look, and even more so if the piece is jet back or shimmery gold. 

LBG dress
Every fashionista knows and LBG. What's the next step? The LBGD of course, or the little black and gold dress. Add the flared cuts, flamboyant front embroidery, or the stylish shoulders – the combination of black and gold will surely make it better. 

Model: Antora

Wardrobe: Almira By Sharukh Amin

Make-up: Hossain

Styling: Sonia Yeasmin Isha