Have you ever come across the term "Caviar" while shopping for St. John clothing, and been left feeling a little bit confused? If so, you're not alone! The term actually refers to the garments color - Black. But Caviar is anything but basic black, so when it comes to pairing up your St. John suits and separates it's important to know the difference!

As most collectors know, St. John produces a variety of colorful suits and separates each season; and if you're looking to expand a set it is best it is best to select pieces from the same season if you want the colors to match. While colors change from season to season, there are some basic colors offered every season, like: Navy Blue, Bright White, and off course Black. These basic colors are easy to pair, perfect for year round wear, and completely classic - making them perfect "foundation" pieces to build a wardrobe around.

So in 2009, when Marie Gray decided that change the formula for basic black, and announced a new and improved black called "Caviar" the news was met with a mixed reaction. Some people loved the change (the new "Caviar" black does look fabulous after all!), but others felt the change was inconsiderate. When compared side by side, Caviar made the old black look like a dark navy blue, which was problematic for anyone still looking to add pieces to their collection.

To make things even more confusing, to highlight the launch of the new black color St. John produced a "Caviar" capsule collection that included a variety of pieces in other colors like red, navy blue, and white; that had the Caviar name written on the label. Thanks...

So, whats the moral of this story? Next time you are looking to add black separates in your St. John collection, make sure you date check your labels first if you want your blacks to match!

Not sure how to do that?
Check out our How to Date St. John Knits Guide and our St. John Knits - Label Resource to learn how to date your St. John clothing and better determine what kind of black you need.