My “Boring” Uniform is Actually a Fashion Favorite
“Well, that’s kind of boring”—not necessarily what you want to hear from someone in reference to your outfit. Here’s the thing, though: When it comes to my uniform, it’s always just black, black, black. Every single day I step out in some iteration of this fit: black pants, top, jacket, and boots. Some people think it’s “cool” and “downtown,” but there are others (ahem, my mother included) who deem the lack of color and variety as “boring.”
Sure, I can see how many might think of my signature look as “not really trying” with the easy monochromatic vibe, but in reality, my uniform has essentially been a fashion favorite forever. The no-fuss nature of the look has consistently been thought of as “effortlessly chic,” especially among stylish New Yorkers. Plus it makes me (and many others I know) feel comfortable and confident with the sleek feel—and that’s what matters most when it comes to personal style anyway.
To further showcase adoration for the uniform and prove its worth, I rounded up some of my favorite fashion people who often post forward all-black looks that are creative and unique on their IGs. Keep scrolling to get inspired by those that embrace the “boring” look. And remember, when in doubt, just go for black. It works.
Here I am in the uniform. To me, it’s not boring at all, given the unique silhouettes (aka the textured moto jacket) and sleek accessories.
Black skinnies are a staple, but if you want to amp up your fall look, try a patent pair of pants with your go-to black sweater instead.
Well, here’s one way to stand out in the crowd wearing all-black—a full-on leather look.
If you go for an all-black ensemble with interesting accents (like the leather grommet skirt here), you'll look incredibly forward and not the least bit boring.
Sure, this fit is simple, but the classic nature makes it just as impactful.
You literally can’t look at this ensemble and not think “statement.” The mixed fabrics (tweed, leather, and the like) give this all-black outfit a fresh twist.
This is more or less the effortless uniform I swear by: a moto jacket, skinny jeans, and boots.
Further proof that the all-black look can feel so polished with suiting and smart accessories.
Okay, yes, white sneakers are in the mix here, but as this influencer says, wear black when you don’t know what to wear.
Now, shop black must-haves:
This is sophisticated enough to wear to the office with boots, but it can also be dressed down with sneakers for the weekend.
Invest in a quality moto jacket and you’ll be set for life.
It’s the interesting heel that makes these boots particularly unique.
Pair your leather skirt with a chunky knit and ankle boots this season.
Bobby Schuessler is a fashion editor with over a decade of editorial experience covering shopping, style, and beauty. He's spent over seven years at Who What Wear, currently leading the market team to deliver highly covetable and convertible content. He creates data-driven shopping guides featuring top retailers like Nordstrom, Shopbop, and Net-a-Porter and is at the forefront of Who What Wear's shopping tentpole strategies, including Amazon Prime Day. He also works on branded content initiatives and appears on camera in video and shopping livestream franchises. He has also worked across a variety of other media brands and fashion retailers like Refinery29, PureWow, Men's Health, and Gilt covering commerce, trend reporting, women's and men's fashion, home, and lifestyle.