In fashion terms, when we use the word monochrome, it can mean two things: 1) dressing in one solid colour or 2) when black and white are paired together. Today, we’re going to talk about the latter, which has made a comeback of late.
If you’ve already consulted our new-season trend report, you’ll know that Chanel, Max Mara, Rosetta Getty, Jil Sander, and Prada, to name but a few, all presented black-and-white monochrome outfits on the S/S 21 runways. But why now?
Natalie Kingham, buying director at MatchesFashion, notes that this is the perfect backdrop to highlight bold accessories, another trend that’s set to be big news this season. “Monochrome always works—anything black or white is a good investment, and you will always wear it,” confirms Kingham. “Right now, it feels appropriate. It’s also great for showing off all the hardware we’re seeing everywhere and works very well with statement jewellery.”
What we love most about monochrome outfits is that you can easily assemble such a look from basic items you already have in your wardrobe. From simple skirts to knitwear to trousers to blouses, we’d be amazed if you can’t immediately style up a handful of monochrome ensembles from your existing wears.
Needless to say, monochrome’s broad appeal means that many of Instagram’s best dressers are already getting in on the black-and-white action. Scroll below to see our favourite monochrome outfits of spring so far. Then shop the key pieces you need to re-create them for yourself.