Black is back.  Not that it ever really went away, but this fall and winter head to toe black is a definite trend.  But let’s face it, sometimes black can be boring, and a little lifeless.  But not so fast.  One of the keys to wearing  black in unusual ways is by  mixing fabrics and textures, and adding casual pieces with dressy pieces for unexpected pizzazz.  Here are a few fun ways you can jazz up that black so that  it truly is the new black.

We love this “black tie” on the left.  This look can take you anywhere.  Pair skinny black plants, with a black velvet blazer, white shirt, add an unexpected black bow tie, a pair of black pumps, and voila! And look how Kate Moss’s simple black sheath pops with a black leather blazer.   And Terri Hatcher rocks the red carpet in a jacket with black leather sleeves, slim black pants, and a sexy white silk blouse.

Get the Look.

Take one fabulous black sheath, like this simple BOSS Black Dirusa Stretch Wool Sheath $495 Bloomingdales; add a pair of suede boots, like the Bunny Boot, $170  from Topshop at Nordstrom; and top it with this beautiful black leather jacket with a lace back, by Lafayette 148 New York, $748 at Bloomingdales.

We love the look of lightweight slimming faux-leather leggings, paired with oversized sweaters. Leggings are $58 at Nordstrom.

Nothing boring about this little black dress.  Walk–or dramatically twirl–to the beat of your own drum in this sleek ponte-knit dress crafted with lively faux-leather fringe at the drop-waist skirt.  $216 at Nordstrom.

Love, love, love this “vegan” faux leather draped jacket.  What a terrific and versatile piece to add to your wardrobe.  And it’s just $88 from Nordstrom.

For a classic tailored look, pair this long would Ralph Lauren long blazer, with slim black pants and boots. Jacket is $227 from Bloomingdales.