Triple Duty: The Black Pant

If there’s one thing no wardrobe is complete without, it’s black trousers—especially ones that are lightly tailored, versatile, and most importantly, comfortable (read: a generous waist with a bit of stretch). Here, how to put the perfect pair to work for three unavoidable holiday scenarios.

Office Dinner

Investing in modern takes on classic separates—like say, a pussy-bow blouse and a camel cape coat—will always do you justice come celebration season. The black-and-white foundation plays particularly well with colorful, detailed prints, like Valentino’s gorgeous clutch, not to mention going-out shoes of every kind.

Family Dinner

This sublimely soft, thickly knit sweater is the perfect marriage of cozy and elegant, meaning you can use it to top off a slightly slouchy trouser and still feel put together. When it comes to accessories, go for the gold: metallic slides, an Art-Deco-style top-handle tote, and dainty jewelry add a festive touch with zero effort.

After-Work Drinks

Here’s a fuss-free, stealthily chic styling trick: Instead of tucking in a blouse, layer a bodysuit under your trousers (this also works wonders with mid-rise jeans and high-waisted skirts). A little color coordination—hints of burgundy and splashes of gold—is visually interesting even in the dark.