I'm no expert, but I just recently did my first water cooled build so I do have some advice.
I did a lot of research, so I'll start by linking my build (I wouldnt have gone with it if I didnt think it was good and I have 0 complaints about the system). Its also black and red.
http://www.overclock.net/t/1452182/watercooled-corsair-...
First I want to say that I highly recommend frozencpu.com. They have everything you need in one place and answered all my questions quickly. Great people to work with.
Second. You really need to determine your layout first. This seems out of place, since you dont know what your build is yet but its still something that needs to be done ahead of everything else, in my opinion. Obviously you dont need all the details, but determine how many reservoirs and where they are going to be (if your just cooling the CPU then 1 large 240/360 res should be enough). Do you have a bay to spare? If so then the res/pump bay combos are simple and easy to use, and they save space. Are you cooling the GPU? If so you'll want another res (not necessary, but highly recommended) and you'll need to plan out the flow of the system. Space is key. If space is tight then a pump/res combo or even a pump/block combo can be a life saver. If you want to be flashy and have lots of space then you have a lot more options. There are also some very nice package deals that you can get with everything that you need. This will allow less customization, but is a lot less stressful since its your first build.
Actual Recommendations:
EKWB waterblocks highly rated, lots of options cant go wrong
swiftech pump - i went with the MCP655-PWM. all the parts are crucial, but a dead pump = fried system so spend extra here
colors - i like distilled water and colored tubing as its the simplest and safest, but I don’t think there is any problem going with dye. checkout primochill for a good line of tubing and dyes
compression fittings - i wouldn’t mess around. obv leaks are worst case scenario, so i think overkill is okay and I like all compression fittings. The monsoon free center fittings come with a tool that makes this process so easy that I would never build again without them. These were my MVP part for sure.
Radiator - there are lots of good ones. the biggest key is finding one that fits. This isn't as easy as it sounds as there are so many things to consider. try finding someone who has already cooled your case and see what they are using.
Summary. Water cooling is basically a waste of money unless you are a heavy overclocker, but it looks awesome. Most research I did showed systems staying well into the safe temp ranges with air cooling alone even when overclocked. The reason I say that is this, dont watercool unless you can afford to. Your money is better spent in other places, and if you are going to do it then you really need to do it right, which means spending even more money. I love my watercooled system so I'm not trying to steer you in a different direction.
Posting here is a good start. Look at other systems and see what you like, and then start putting it all together on paper. Once you have some specific ideas, post them for people to review. Once you are 100% sure you have it exactly right, then order it all at once and have fun. gl.