It's no surprise that working in fashion means being surrounded by incredibly chic people who constantly inspire your next look. Such is the case with all of my co-workers, but there is one in particular who is known for putting together elevated outfits with black dresses: our associate director of special projects, Kristen Nichols. I'm pretty faithful to black dresses over any other color or print, so I couldn't help but notice her various inspiring takes.
I set out to find some of her best black-dress outfits, which are well-documented on her stylish Instagram account. There are endless outfits to pick from, so it took me a moment to narrow it down to seven of my personal favorites. Each is the epitome of elevated thanks not only to the black dress styles she choses, which range from mini to maxi lengths, but also the bags and shoes she opts for. Think sleek mini bags, sophisticated slingback shoes, and effortless sandals to name a few.
Keep scrolling to check out and shop each outfit that prove Nichols is a true master at elevated black-dress outfits.
1.
Shop the Look
You'll wear these forever.
Under $100 and super chic.
This one looks designer.
This one is an editor favorite.
The epitome of statement flats.
2.
Shop the Look
Elevated vibes indeed.
Sleek.
This one is selling out fast!
I want these in so many colors.
3.
Shop the Look
Effortless-LBD alert.
I love a good mini bag.
I can't help but think they used Kristen's look as inspiration.
Barely there sandals are a personal favorite.
4.
Shop the Look
Cute and under $50.
Endless styling possibilities here.
Can't beat this price.
5.
Shop the Look
Kristen's exact piece.
Another pair of classic sunglasses.
A chic alternative.
Dream bag.
Reformation dresses are always on point.
White kitten-heel pumps always sell out super fast.
6.
Shop the Look
This can easily be dressed up or down.
An elegant mini bag.
This looks great with flats as well.
I could live in these.
7.
Shop the Look
This dress is always in style.
Loving the simple buckle.
This one is 50% off right now.
A heeled take on the earlier barely there sandal.
This option has super-skinny straps.
-
It's Officially a Butter-Yellow Summer—27 of the Chicest Finds at Zara, Nordstrom, and J.CrewFashion people love this color trend.
-
This Nordstrom Rack Sale Has So Many Cool-Girl Essentials—These 25 Finds Are the StandoutsAn extra 20% off? Yes, please.
-
Guess Who Just Paired the Dress Every NYC Girl Owns With 2025's Most Controversial Flat-Shoe TrendHint: She's very famous.
-
The Classic Hero Piece That Fashion People Reach For All Summer LongSomething for every personal style.
-
Lazy Luxury Is the New Quiet Luxury (Which Is Now Dead, BTW)Here's how to do it right.
-
I've Lived in NYC, L.A., and Boston—Here's Everything I Think Is Chic for SummerShop the highly curated list.
-
The Perfect $16 Tank Top and More Zara Items I'm Texting Everyone I Know AboutElite finds.
-
Of Course, 2025's Cali Summer Uniform Involves This Timeless Denim TrendCan you take any guesses?
