The next best thing to a noble black outfit is a thoughtfully matched black/white pair. Black and white are a simple and timeless pair; the sharp contrast quickly catches attention. The duo functions well across every type of dress formality, from everyday wear to the corporate.
In the picture above, I am wearing a black turtleneck or rollneck top and white trousers, with a well-tailored black overcoat.
For this look, I applied the Conservative rule as the foundation; with strong elements of Colour Blocking and Contrast from my 4C framework.
Conservative dressing stays within the safe boundary, opting for neutral colours. In this case, both white and black are popular neutrals. While in colour blocking, we have distinct colours standing side by side; they neither blend nor subdue each other. Each colour is bold and visible. Here, a very sharp contrast exists between black and white, making each colour clearly visible.
Black confers depth and authority. It is evident in the noble simplicity of the black turtleneck or rollneck. The black overcoat strongly echoes this authority, while keeping the look smart but grounded.
The white trousers present a clean canvas – the sharpest of its type. It draws more attention to the black and yet it refuses to hide.
The accompanying accessories understand the game and blend in naturally.
The textured black scarf around the neck, though functional, flows in continuity with the black top – thus blending style with warmth for the cold seasons. The black and white penny loafers are a clever way to bridge the black-white contrast at the top – it neatly ties everything together.
Clearly the turtleneck, overcoat, and the black tone on the loafers intentionally match up. The white tone on the penny loafers strikes an accord with the pristine white trousers, further highlighting the sharp contrast.
The entire outlook presents a next-level smart casual or business casual styling.
This outfit works perfectly for the following:
* Upscale social gatherings
* Dinner dates
* Fashion shoots
* Museum/gallery visits
*Academic sessions
* Business brunch in the cold seasons
* Casual Fridays in offices
* Toned-down professional wear during fall & winter.
This is but a sample of what the 4C framework in my colour styling look book covers. The framework unravels how to apply Conservative, Complementary, Contrasting, and Colour Blocking strategies to your wardrobe collection to look outstanding every time. You can download the look book and use it as a guide to dress with confidence and intentionality.
Take a tour of our breathtaking collection of men’s suits, accessories, and African attires in the Twelve19Styles online store today – all tailored to perfection. You can place your order, or else book for virtual or in-person fittings with our responsive team all on the website. Your product will arrive in good time anywhere in and around the UK.
On a final note. I urge you to be a part of the Elevate Your Style community. We are a transnational community of intelligent creators, entrepreneurs, and professionals with a keen eye for self-expression and style at its finest. You have the opportunity to gain quality connections, business insights, moral and social support, visibility, and unlimited fun as you enhance your style game. Join us and be transformed for good.
Do you have other suggestions or opinions about how to style black and white? Let me know in the comments below.