Black and white has always been a classic combination, from the puritans to 60s mods to its present day incarnations. The monochrome look was a big trend this spring and summer, the simple colors fitting in perfectly with the light and fresh summer outfits. The trend is continuing into fall and winter, but receiving a little overhaul suited to the colder temperatures: new materials, contrasting textures and heavy embellishment.
# Optical illusion
Optical illusion dresses have been a huge hit with celebrities during 2013, and are a perfect option if you’re planning an outfit for a holiday, party or event this winter. These black and white dresses are so popular because they make fuller figures appear slimmer, and help lend curves to more petite body shapes. Make like model Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and pair your monochrome illusion dress with just a simple pair of black pumps for maximum impact. This style doesn’t just work for parties, either – the elegant color combination means they’re perfect for the office, too.
Source via glamourmagazine.co.uk
# Stripes
Black and white is a timeless and sophisticated color combination. Stripes are thepattern that will never go out of style. Put them together, and you’ll have one of the most classic styles you can ever own. Whether you choose Breton- or prisoner-style, horizontal or vertical, stripes will make a statement for both evening- and daywear. It’s a versatile pattern; think of it as a neutral to pair with anything – or let it make impact on its own. Stripes in feminine shapes like Chloë Moretz’s fit and flare dress is a great way into the trend, but we love the mismatching stripes on stripes look too.
Source via dailymail.co.uk
# Graphic pattern
British presenter Caroline Flack’s gorgeous diamond patterned black and white mini dress is a perfect example of how a monochrome graphic pattern can really make an impact: with minimal makeup and a pair of nude pumps, she lets the dress take centre stage. We love fun and quirky prints like this Lavish Alice giraffe print cami dress too – this would look great worn on its own with sandals next summer and pair with lots of snuggle layers for this season too! Don’t be afraid to experiment with black and white version of other key fall/winter trends too, like this fabulous leopard-print Tibi dress.
Source via handbag.com
# Textured
One of the best ways to update the black and white trend for this season is to get creative with texture. Altuzarra’s amazing leather and fur dress is a great example of this, but for those of us who are perhaps less adventurous, Valentino’s sweet black and white dresses with sheer panels are an easier way to get into texture. You could also achieve this effect by layering up any black and white dress with lace hosiery, a leather jacket, a fur stole… more is more when it comes to contrasting textures!
Source via style.com
The black and white dress trend is probably the chicest trend around this season, but that doesn’t mean it’s boring. Play around with texture, print and pattern to create a high impact look no matter the occasion. Monochrome dresses are super flattering – especially if you invest in an optical illusion dress – and work for every person, every season and every occasion! However you choose to wear the black and white dress trend, you don’t need to worry about spending money on a trend that’s heading out of style: black and white is truly a combination that’s here to stay, so rest assured that you’ll be investing in pieces that you’ll be able to wear well beyond this season.