Trend How-To: Monochrome

Black and white pieces are a wardrobe staple every girl should have. Classic tones are sophisticated, sharp and always in style.

This season it’s all about taking the classic black and white look to another level. Designers like Marc Jacobs, Louis Vuitton, Michael Kors and Prada are keeping things interesting on the runway with monochromatic textures and patterns.

The contemporary take on black and white is achieved by pairing different patterned tops and bottoms – namely checkerboards and stripes. This trend is easy to play with because unlike colour blocking, black and white are best friends and are guaranteed to match any skin tone and hair colour.

Now that it’s approaching cooler months, it’s the perfect time to start prepping your winter wardrobe staples. Don’t be afraid to double up top and bottom with this look. If you do it wisely, you can pair a black and white striped pant with a textured black and white top, and vice versa. Here are some key pieces to add to your wardrobe this season…

Top row, left to right: Rachel Comey Lafon Boots $359.66 at ASOS.com, Agent Provocateur Bralet $202.00 at Net-A-Porter.com, Moschino Cheap and Chic Wrap Skirt$53.12 at TheOutnet.com

Bottom row, left to right: Josh Goot Black and White Shirt $197.50 at Frockaholics.com, 3.1 Phillip Lim 31 hour tote $840.00 at Net-A-Porter.com, Topshop Stripe Shift Dress $56.00 at Topshop.com