Monochromatic outfits have broken the internet a few times in the past years. Do you remember Michelle Obama’s look for the Biden’s Inauguration in that powerful plum pants look by Sergio Hudson? I even had to recreate that look! It’s something bold yet seemingly effortless about a monochromatic outfit. Monochrome style is excellent year-round, but I believe it’s especially lovely in the colder months because we are already adding layers. So in this post, I will break down how to wear a monochromatic outfit, including color palettes and style tips.
WHAT IS MONOCHROMATIC?
I remember calling a black and white looks monochromatic on a YouTube video and getting schooled on the difference in the comments, lol. Now I know in basic terms, monochromatic is containing or using only one color. For example, this can mean using the pieces in the same color or using shades of the same color. The latter is my favorite way to style a monochrome out!
Tip: One of my favorite ways to visualize my outfit color palettes is to use a color wheel or Pinterest (add link). They are great tools for coming up with new color combos or ensuring that the colors are the same shade.
MONOCHROMATIC OUTFIT STYLE TIPS
SELECT THE RIGHT MONOCHROMATIC COLORS
Start with a color you love! I believe this should be the foundation of anything you wear, especially if you are wearing it head to toe in a monochromatic style. If you follow me on Instagram or YouTube, you already know I love the color yellow, but I typically stick to jewel tones when it comes to a monochrome outfit. I find these colors to have more depth resulting in a more impactful look.
MIX TEXTURES IN YOUR MONOCHROME OUTFIT
Speaking of depth, an excellent way to add more depth to a monochrome outfit is to mix textures. My style is classic with a twist, and one way to add a twist to any ensemble is mixing lighter materials like satins, silks, and chiffons with leathers, knits, or denim.
Tip: Try mixing a chunky oversize knit with a satin skirt in the same shades and add boots or pumps to complete the look.
ACHIEVE BALANCE WITH A MONOCHROMATIC OUTFIT
Have you ever looked at a celebrity and said, how do they make the most random pieces look great? Balance is the key.
Consider achieving balance by pairing feminine with masculine elements. So maybe a satin blouse with structured suit pants. Or a slip dress with a leather moto jacket; this is a timeless look in all black.
Tip: Balance is also found in mixing up the structure of pieces, such as pairing a fitted top with wide-leg jeans. Or a voluminous top with a pencil skirt.
ACCENTUATE THE RIGHT AREAS
Sometimes layering monochromatic outfits can seem bulky or lack shape in the sea of one color. To solve this problem, I love to add accessories! Accessories can are a great way to break it up and help accentuate the right areas.
Tip: Maybe a wide belt accentuates the waist or a coat in a deeper tone of the same shade to provide contrast. Also, don’t forget your shoes! The right pump or boot can make a look, so be mindful.
ADD IN A TOUCH OF PATTERN TO YOUR MONOCHROMATIC OUTFIT
When most people think of monochrome outfits, you might not consider patterns. I believe, if correctly done, patterns are a great way to take a monochromatic look up a notch. I recommend using more subtle patterns until you are comfortable, and then go bold!
Tip: Animal prints are a great way to use patterns in a monochrome outfit. Snake prints are especially my favorite for this type of style.
DON’T FORGET NEUTRALS
I know that I have spoken a lot about using color to achieve the perfect look, but don’t forget about neutrals. Honey, nothing beats a winter white or all-black look when you use the tips I provided above. But remember most importantly to have fun because this is your style moment!
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