If you were to close your eyes, spin in a circle, and
randomly point to an item in my closet, there’s a 75% chance that piece will
either be black or white. Coco Chanel debuted the first LBD in 1926, noting “I
have said that black has it all. White too. Their beauty is absolute. It is the
perfect harmony.” Like the yin and the yang, black and white are a complementary
match made in fashion heaven. There is beauty in the balance and juxtaposition
in the sharp, but harmonizing contrast of these hues. Universally flattering,
black is a well-known slimming trick when worn at the waist or when used in
paneling or color blocking. White and ecru are also universally flattering for their
highlighting effects, specifically when worn near the face. The two are both palatable
for other hues and match well with grays, reds, yellows, and patterns. When I
think of black and white fashion, I think of Chanel’s iconic pearls on a little
black dress, Kate Spade’s boldly playful polka dots and stripes, sixties
mod-style geometric print A-line dresses, and summery picnic-inspired gingham.
Equal parts spirited and chic, black and white inspired looks most closely
align with my personal style. Below, I’ve included a few of my favorite black
and white pieces.
Floral A-Line Midi Skirt, Banana Republic.
CeCe Polka Dot Blouse, Nordstrom.
Maxx Pointed Toe Gingham Pumps, Charles David.
Gingham Tiered Blouse, J. Crew.
Alara Slip-On Sneaker, J. Slides.
Leather & Grosgrain Bow Clutch, Kate Spade.
Ruffle Sleeve Top, J. Crew.
Snakeskin Minnie Roccia Travel Flats, Tory Burch.
Tulle Sleeve Shirt, J. Crew.
Velvet Tie Stripe Top, J. Crew.
Eight Sixty Lace Up Snakebite Top, Evereve.
Me and the student leader of our Fashion Forward club. Black blouse NYDJ, Nordstrom. Ivory Double Serge Wool Mini Skirt, J.Crew. Suede knee-high boots, Via Spiga.