Top Monochrome Fashion Pairings

Black and white have always been a popular color combo, but finding the perfect balance between the two can be tricky. Here, we share some of our favorite celebrity black and white outfits and offer tips on how to create stunning looks with this classic pairing.

1. Reece Witherspoon at the 2011 Oscars
Reece Witherspoon knows how to do Oscars glam well, and her 2011 Armani dress is a perfect example of black and white elegance. This strapless black gown, with its subtle train and white silk band, struck the right contrast. She added jade green earrings for a splash of color that really completed her look.

2. Kate Middleton at the 2013 Southampton Docks
While attending a cruise-ship naming ceremony at Southampton Docks, a very pregnant Kate Middleton looked stunning in a black and white animal print coat. The coat, from Hobbs, was a bold but not overwhelming choice, making it a standout piece on the high street scene in 2013.

3. Angelina Jolie at the 2014 Baftas
Saint Laurent made a lasting impression on modern fashion with Angelina Jolie’s slim-fitting black and white tuxedo at the 2013 Baftas. The white shirt under the black suit added a chic touch, and Jolie’s confidence and the impeccable tailoring made the outfit truly memorable.

4. Lupita Nyong’o at the 2014 Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic
Lupita Nyong’o turned heads in a gorgeous black and white print dress by Alexander McQueen at the Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic. She completed her look with a charming black summer hat by Janessa Leone and vibrant blue eye shadow, adding bright accents to her ensemble.

5. Charlize Theron at the 2015 Met Gala
Charlize Theron is often recognized as one of the best-dressed celebrities, and her 2015 Met Gala look was particularly noteworthy. Her Christian Dior dress featured clever black paneling that shaped her silhouette beautifully. A black blazer draped over her shoulders enhanced the effortless monochrome style.

Our tips for merging black and white perfectly:

1. Incorporate a colorful accessory
Like Witherspoon’s earrings or Nyong’o’s blue eyeshadow, a splash of color in your accessories can elevate a black and white outfit. Just be careful not to overdo it—black and white should remain the focus.

2. Emphasize the fit
The key to why Jolie and Middleton looked so polished is the fit of their clothes. Ensure that black and white pieces fit well to convey a luxurious feel. Avoid overly casual, baggy black garments which might look unrefined.

3. Care for your clothes
Maintaining your black and white clothing is crucial for achieving standout looks repeatedly. White clothing can lose its crispness if not handled properly, and black can fade if neglected.

4. Mix different fabrics
Black and white outfits allow for experimentation with textures, provided they are in similar shades. Pair something like a black leather belt with white denim or a chunky white necklace with a black chiffon top to add interest.

5. Show off your legs
Resist the urge to pair black dresses or skirts with black tights as they can make the look feel heavy. Instead, opt for bare legs and wear boots in cooler weather. Ensure your legs are moisturized to avoid detracting from your outfit.

How will you sport the monochrome trend? Share your style tips!