A house built on consideration.

“I have always believed a woman knows what she wants. My role is to make sure she finds it.”

Mrs. Abigail Washington opened the doors of Elegant In Black after thirty years of dressing the women of New Orleans for the moments that defined their lives. What began as quiet recommendations among friends — mother-of-the-bride gowns, gala dresses, the right hat for the right Sunday — became a calling.

The atelier is small by design. Appointments are unhurried. Conversations are private. Every piece in the house has earned its place by holding up to the standards of women who have, themselves, earned theirs.

We dress mothers and grandmothers, judges and pastors, business owners and quiet philanthropists. We dress the woman who walks into a room and does not need to announce herself.

“Refinement is a form of respect — for yourself, and for those who will see you.”