Photos (clockwise from top left): Jordana Brewster, Rue de Navarin, Annemiek Kessels, Gaia Repossi, Amanda Brooks, Lana Del Rey. Courtesy of wwd.com;sartorialist.com;modedamour.com;harpersbazaar.com;
I love colors. But for me, bright piece is like dessert–a great extra, but definitely can’t replace a meal. Most of the time, I rely on neutrals. After talked so many eye-catching red garments, let’s go back to basics today, focusing on understated black and white ensembles. They are great transitional pieces for late summer/early fall, and–if you still remember this post–late spring/early summer.
There are many ways to create a black-white look: First and the easiest way is pairing white tops with black bottoms (jeans, pants, pencil skirts that we all have in our wardrobe); Second and my favorite way is pairing black tops with white bottoms, extra bonus if you can find the pieces with unique designs, or add pops of color with accessories; Third way is wearing a two-tone piece: a black and white jumpsuit or dress; Fourth way is playing with prints and patterns like zebra, cow print, stripes and polka dots.
About the first way, you can find many stylish looks in my previous posts here and here. Today we will focus on the second and third ways. As I said before, to make our black top and white bottom combo stand out, it’s better to find the pieces with unique details, special materials or eye-catching designs.
This leather peplum top stays on the top of my fall shopping list. The leather adds an edgy twist to the ladylike silhouette. Pair it with fitted white shorts, a white mini skirt or a pair of white skinny jeans for an urban chic look. Equipment signature blouse has been featured a lot. It’s truly a seasonless and timeless piece. I preordered the classic white version from Moda Operandi last year, and scored several other colors at Shopbop.
Do you still remember the A.L.C red dress on Miranda Kerr ?(check it here on Vogue) This black top is from the same brand and with the same sexy cut-out neckline, also similar to the one on Jordana Brewster in the picture above. Last one below by Rag & Bone/Jean is also my favorite. I pre-ordered the tank version(also via Moda Operandi) at the end of 2010 and wear it with everything since I got it the next year. The basic silhouette makes it versatile while the see-through design adds a rock-and-roll twist.
From left:
3.1 Phillip Lim leather peplum Top
Equipment signature blouse (and here)
A.L.C. Shay top
Rag & Bone/Jean ribbed tee
Designers focus more on bottom these two seasons. Thanks for that, we have so many options when it comes to skirts. This asymmetrical skirt from Helmut Lang is my favorite. Adore the simple silhouette, the graceful drape design, the asymmetrical hemlines, the slightly see-through fabric and more.
This one from Givenchy is so feminine and flattering, will make every wearer feel like a modern fish princess. Peplum is a hot and beloved trend and will continue its moment in the coming season. This one is crisp and simple, also can be easily transformed into a pencil skirt. But if you are looking for a girly, sporty and youthful version, then shouldn’t miss this one by A.L.C.
From left:
Givenchy double knit skirt (on sale, also here)
Alice + Olivia peplum Skirt
Helmut Lang asymmetrical skirt (similar but shorter version here)
A.L.C. Agnus Skirt
Two-tone dress is my favorite. Just zip it up and you easily get a polled-together, sophisticated look. I can’t take my eyes away from this ostrich feather dress. It’s just so luxurious, glamorous and delicate.
High waist dress can elongate our legs. With a cute bow and feminine tulip design, what else can we ask for? This Giambattista Valli dress surely fits your need if you want something elegant and chic. But if you are looking for a youthful vibe, I like this one by Susana Monaco. It can easily be dressed up or down simply by changing accessories.
From left:
Milly Sasha ostrich feather dress
Giambattista Valli tulip dress (great style here and here)
Susana Monaco Andrea dress
Which one is your favorite?
