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 Royalty Medieval Victorian Black Ball Gown Dress Elegant Prom Queen Costume for All Seasons, Perfect for Parties & Quinceanera Gowns Clothing & Textiles: Early 1900s Black Lace Gown New Canaan Museum and Historical Society Miss Me Embroidered Lace Babydoll Black Fashion Nova Solid Sweetheart Floral Lace Babydoll Dress Steampunk Black Wedding Dress 16 Bust 40" & Waist 33"