How to Create Black and White Style - For Your Wardrobe

Now that we have taken care of making your home black, white and chic all over, it is time to set our sights on your wardrobe. Every woman needs a foundation of black and white separates. Don’t forget to throw in shoes, accessories and a few funky surprises for good measure! If you already own a few black and white pieces and don’t know where to begin, here are some sure-fire tips to help you ease into this timeless and versatile look.

If you find yourself gazing into your closet convinced you have nothing to wear, consider picking up a few black and white basics. These essentials will give you the ability to pull a classic look together in the blink of an eye. Black and white will also eliminate color coordination issues—this combination always looks pulled together and elegant.

Most of you know the importance of a “little black dress”. Coco Chanel introduced this concept in 1926, and it has become a fashion staple. The little black dress holds its own in a world that relies heavily on trendy clothes. You should own at least one black dress that can go from business meetings to cocktail parties in the blink of an eye with the right accessories. Put it together with a cropped black jacket and black and white spectator pumps for the office, then ditch the business look by adding a wide black patent belt and red stilettos for a night on the town!

Is it a blouse or a shirt? Whatever you call it, call it a must-have for your black and white wardrobe. Whether it comes in the form of a crisp button down or a feminine number with billowy sleeves and a peter pan collar; pair it with a skirt and throw on a black blazer or a wool cardigan for a conservative day look. Wear it untucked with a pair of boyfriend jeans for a casual weekend vibe. If your shirt is long enough, cinch it with a couple of thin black belts, slip on a pair of black leggings and ankle boots for a day of shopping. Make sure you purchase quality cotton or linen—it may be a slight investment, but with proper care, you’ll have it for many years to come!

A simple black skirt is as indispensable as the little black dress when selecting the components of black and white style. Purchase a skirt and jacket set and you have automatically extended your wardrobe by two pieces! Choose a cut and length of skirt that flatters your body type then you can wear your APBS (all-purpose black skirt) with a solid white or black and white print top. Pick a black skirt made from worsted wool or a medium weight synthetic so you can wear it year-round.

You can never have too many solid white t-shirts in your closet. Dress ‘em up or dress ‘em down—they are your best friends! Find styles and cuts that show off your curves and stock up when they go on sale. Sleeveless, cap-sleeved and long sleeved white tees come to the rescue in almost any fashion emergency. T-shirts work with skirts, leggings, shorts and jeans.These chameleons of the black and white fashion world also take on the business world when worn under a suit.

Every woman needs a few of these black and white aces up her sleeve! Keep your black and white essentials constant and add a fresh perspective with these wardrobe wild cards. You don’t have to spend a great deal of money to add a few fashion forward items to your black and white repertoire. Think tunics, tees, skirts, shirts, shorts, sweaters, scarves and even leggings in bold geometric designs, animal prints, stripes, polka dots and florals.

Don't forget accessories! The sky's the limit when you go on the hunt for handbags, shoes and jewelry to complete your black and white style!