The Oscars Just Killed the “No Black in Spring” Rule
Odessa A’zion wore a stunning black velvet gown to the 2026 Oscars. 48 hours later, her name saw a 5,000% search increase. TikTok saw a huge increase in “black dress inspo” searches, after the Vanity Fair parties.
Style advice used to say women should not wear black in spring. This advice claimed black could make them look pale or older. But shoppers are now ignoring this.
Pinterest’s 2026 trend report shows a rise in “Glamoratti” fashion. This style is bold and gothic-inspired, and the complete opposite of the pastel “coquette” looks that have been popular for the last two years.
New Look has created a guide for styling black dresses this spring. It features items from their collection, with prices starting at £13.
MYTH 01: “Black looks flat in photos.”
The fix: ditch matte fabrics. Heavy texture, velvet and mesh catch light and create movement. It’s exactly what made Odessa’s Armani Privé look work on the red carpet.
The black velvet gathered sleeve midi dress does this well. Dark sheer mesh panels and embellishment details give it the kind of depth that reads on camera.
Black Velvet Gathered Sleeve Midi Dress
Black Velvet Diamanté Wrap Mini Dress
MYTH 02: “Black feels too heavy for spring.”
The fix: break up the silhouette. Sheer panels, crochet inserts, and lace details add airiness to the design. They prevent it from appearing as a solid block of dark fabric.
The black velvet lace insert midi dress features gothic lace at the neckline. This detail echoes the complexity of Odessa’s Valentino look that night.
Black Velvet Lace Insert Midi Dress
Black Diamanté Embellished Velvet Mini Dress
MYTH 03: “Black looks too corporate.”
The fix: sheer lace trims. They take the read from the boardroom to the after-party, keeping the same colour and shape.
The black lace trim slip strappy midi dress does just that. The sheer lace at the neckline transforms a simple slip dress into an evening-ready look.
Black Lace Trim Slip Strappy Midi Dress