When did wearing black become fashionable? While a little black dress is a classic now, the shade was not always considered chic. For most of the 19th century, black clothing was reserved Devine Ruffled V Neck Sleeveless Mini Dress The Glass Closet The Fashionable Past: Mourning for Prince Albert An 1860s Black Silk Dress V Back Mini Dress Black Wedding or Mourning Dress? European Fashion Heritage Association ASOS DESIGN v neck button down mini dress with lace trim and godets in black ASOS