Aritzia Soft Black vs. Black: What's the difference?

The primary difference between Aritzia's Soft Black and classic Black fabrics comes down to finish and feel. Standard Black offers a timeless, smooth, and uniform appearance suitable for any occasion, while Soft Black is a specialized fabric treated to feel noticeably more plush and cozy, resulting in a slightly more matte and relaxed look.

Here’s everything you need to know to choose the right Aritzia black for your wardrobe.

Aritzia Black

Aritzia's standard Black is the versatile, foundational color used across the majority of their collections. It's designed to be a true wardrobe staple, offering a crisp, clean aesthetic that can be dressed up for professional settings or styled down for everyday wear. The finish is typically smooth and consistent, providing a classic look that pairs seamlessly with virtually anything.

• What it is: The classic, standard black fabric option found in Aritzia's basics, workwear, and activewear collections.
• Key features: A consistent, often smooth finish that can range from matte to slightly lustrous depending on the material (e.g., cotton, polyester, viscose blends). Known for its versatility and durability.
• Price: Varies by garment, typically between $50 - $200.
• Aesthetic: Timeless, sleek, and classic. Provides a sharp and polished look that works equally well for formal occasions and casual styling.
• Pros: Extremely versatile for work, evening, and casual wear. Easy to pair with other pieces. Provides a classic, tailored appearance. Widely available across most Aritzia styles.
• Cons: Lacks the plush, cozy texture of Soft Black. Can feel more functional than luxurious depending on the specific item.

This is the ideal choice for building a capsule wardrobe or for anyone seeking reliable, go-to black pieces that are polished and versatile.

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Aritzia Soft Black

Soft Black is not just a color but a specific fabric finish focused on a superior tactile experience. This version undergoes a treatment process, such as brushing, that gives the material a softer, plusher, and more luxurious hand-feel. It's often used in apparel where comfort is paramount, like loungewear, cozy sweaters, and relaxed bottoms.

• What it is: A specialized black fabric with a treated finish to enhance softness and comfort.
• Key features: A brushed or similarly treated texture that feels plush against the skin. The appearance is often slightly muted or matte due to the fabric's finish.
• Price: Priced similarly to standard Black pieces, though sometimes with a small premium due to the finishing process.
• Aesthetic: Relaxed, cozy, and luxurious. Perfect for creating comfortable, off-duty looks that still feel elevated.
• Pros: Exceptionally soft and comfortable. Adds textural interest to an outfit. Feels luxe and cozy, ideal for loungewear. May be more resistant to showing pilling over time.
• Cons: Generally reads as more casual and may not be suitable for formal office settings. Less widely available than standard Black. The muted tone may not be as crisp as the true Black.

This fabric is perfect for those who prioritize comfort and want their loungewear and casual pieces to have an elevated, cozy feel.

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Aritzia Black vs. Soft Black Comparison

Feel & Comfort

The most significant distinction between the two is the tactile experience. Standard Black fabric feels smooth and straightforward, consistent with high-quality basics. It’s comfortable for all-day wear but doesn’t have a notable texture.

Soft Black, in contrast, is all about texture. The brushed finish creates a plush, almost velvety feel that is immediately noticeable. It’s designed specifically for maximum comfort, making it feel cozier and more luxurious against the skin. If you’re buying something to lounge in, Soft Black provides a far more comfortable experience.

Appearance & Aesthetic

Aritzia's standard Black delivers a true, deep black that looks sharp and defined. Depending on the material, it can have a flat matte finish or a subtle sheen, which gives it a versatile and polished appearance. Its uniformity makes it an easy choice for professional settings and formal outfits.

Soft Black's textured surface diffuses light differently, often resulting in a slightly muted or softer-looking shade of black. The aesthetic is inherently more relaxed and casual. While still chic, it leans more towards cozy-wear and effortless style rather than the sharp tailoring associated with standard Black.

Versatility & Best Use Cases

Standard Black is the clear winner for versatility. It’s the foundational piece that works in any context - from a work blazer and trousers to a basic tee or leggings. Its classic appearance makes it appropriate for nearly any dress code.

Soft Black serves a more specific purpose. It excels in comfort-driven apparel. Think elevated sweatshirts, cozy cardigans, joggers, and weekend wear. While you could style these pieces for errands or casual outings, they're generally not the first choice for a business meeting or a formal event.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both fabric options offer Aritzia's signature quality, but they cater to very different needs and preferences.

Choose Black if:

• You are building a dependable capsule wardrobe with versatile staples.
• You need pieces suitable for professional settings, work, or more formal occasions.
• You prefer a sleek, timeless, and uniform look without added texture.
• The item you're buying is a classic piece like a blazer, trousers, or a simple top.

Choose Soft Black if:

• Your top priority is comfort and a luxurious, cozy feel.
• You are shopping for loungewear, comfortable sweaters, or casual layering pieces.
• You prefer a relaxed, often matte, aesthetic over a sharp, classic one.
• You want to add subtle texture and dimension to your casual outfits.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the main difference between Aritzia's Black and Soft Black?

The main difference is the feel and finish. Regular Black is a smooth, classic fabric without a special texture. Soft Black is treated with a finish, like brushing, to make it feel exceptionally plush and cozy, which also gives it a more matte, relaxed appearance.

Does Soft Black look different from regular Black?

Yes, subtly. Due to its textured surface, Soft Black often appears slightly more matte or muted compared to the truer, deeper tone of standard Black. The texture itself adds a visible point of difference.

Is Soft Black more expensive?

Prices are generally comparable, but some Soft Black pieces might have a slight premium due to the additional fabric treatment process. However, both fall within Aritzia's typical price range.

Which fabric is better for workwear?

Standard Black is almost always the better choice for workwear. Its smooth, classic finish provides a professional and polished look suitable for blazers, blouses, and trousers. Soft Black fabrics tend to read as too casual for most corporate environments.

Are the sizes the same for both fabrics?

Yes, Aritzia's sizing is consistent across both fabric types. You should order your usual size, though the drape and feel will naturally differ. Soft Black items are often designed with a more relaxed fit to begin with.

How do I care for Soft Black pieces?

To preserve the plush texture, it's best to wash Soft Black garments on a gentle cycle with cold water and lay them flat to dry or tumble dry on low heat. This will help maintain the softness and prevent unwanted changes to the fabric's finish.

Does Soft Black fabric pill easily?

While any knit fabric can pill, the brushed finish on Soft Black can sometimes make it more resilient to noticeable pilling compared to standard knit fabrics. Following proper care instructions is the best way to ensure longevity for both types.

Can I find all Aritzia styles in Soft Black?

No, the Soft Black finish is typically reserved for collections where comfort is a priority, such as Tna, Wilfred Free, and Babaton's loungewear lines. It is not available for all Aritzia products.