Time’s up, black is back and it’s here to stay. At the Golden Globes 2018 last month, another trend took to the red carpet. Even the very colour of carpet being apt for the warning sign of what is coming for women. Not just in film, but the entertainment industry as a whole and in extension, women in the workplace today. Black wasn’t a case of RIP, but a symbolic statement – albeit a subtle statement – of solidarity between women for victims of sexual harassment, as part of the ‘Time’s Up’ movement that’s been dominating social media.

After a month of awards, February has the upcoming BAFTAs and BRITs, closely followed by the biggest awards evening in the Hollywood calendar, the Oscars. Will we see more statements of solidarity? I’d count on it. So why shouldn’t we mere mortals help promote the fact that time is up for sexual assault, harassment and inequality in the workplace? The clock has run out, it’s time to do something about it. It’s time to embrace a timeless trend and make your clothes mean more. Dust off that age-old blackness in your wardrobe and start styling…

Power dressing has never been so feminine. Although I’m not just talking about a 9-5 wardrobe only reserved for the work place. After all, that is the reason for this sudden fusion of black, but the best thing about black is that it goes with everything! In true feminism fashion, the colour black is one of the most, if not the most, flattering colour to showcase the curves of the female form, screaming girl power. No wonder why they chose black.

One question; how to wear it? Accessorise. The LBD is a classic that can always be counted upon to compliment your body, whatever style that may be. Whether you’re partial to a peplum, being bold in a body-con, sitting pretty in pleats or are an A* in an A-line, choose a look that suits you and style it up a storm. Make black even more authoritative by accentuating it with chunky gold or abstract shaped jewellery. Matching cuffs on both wrists look like, and act like, a metaphorical modern-day armour for this new age woman. Layer up for a more casual, sports-luxe approach – a cropped top under a lightweight tailored jacket allows a flash of skin, so ensure you pick cut-outs that offer just a glimpse, but are no less daring than a plunging neckline.

Class with a little sass
Structured handbags and look-at-me shoes will add that extra ‘je ne sais quoi’ and, most importantly, don’t be afraid to take a risk on one of them. Or both. No one ever got noticed playing it safe. If sexy cut-outs aren’t for you, look for a piece that will accentuate your frame. After all, we all have different ones. Try a tailored blazer, which says classy, while your accessories are saying sassy. You can’t have class without a little sass – think Marilyn meets Audrey on a night out.If blazers are too polished for your everyday style, create a strong combo by taking an edgier approach. Partner with black skinnies and chunky ankle boots.

An edgy alternative, and a personal preference of mine, is the jumpsuit. If you’re not the dress type-of-gal, the all-in-one can be as feminine (or not) as you choose to make it. The ‘trouser dress’ is comfortable, a warmer option on those chillier nights out, avoids a last minute tan and elongates any pair of pins, especially with a pair of killer heels.

However you choose to style your shade of solidarity, remember this is power dressing in the literal sense. Who run the world? Girls.