Monochromatic outfits may seem easy to pull off requiring no effort but there is more. First of all, what exactly is monochromatic? The word “monochromatic” is made of two words: “mono” meaning single and “chromatic” meaning colour. So a monochromatic outfit would consist of pieces of one colour.
Supposing you wear a black blazer on a black turtle neck with black trousers and black shoes, good for you as you nailed the monochromatic look. However, this is not the case when you experiment with bright and bold colours for the monochrome effect.
Read on to stay style inspired on how to wear monochrome without committing fashion blunders:
- Mix textures in your monochromatic outfit
Ensure you mix textures within your monochromatic outfit so you don’t look boring. You may want to add visual interest, depth, and dimension to your look. For example pairing together denim and chiffon, leather and cotton, suede and silk, wool and sequins.
- Maintain balance
Always maintain balance when combining pieces. This is a rule for every outfit, not just monochromatic ones. Don’t allow one colour to overwhelm you by playing with proportions. For example, if you’re wearing a ‘free’ top, make sure to pair it with fitted bottoms. With a full A-line skirt wear a form-fitting top.
- Accentuate the right areas of your body
Accentuate the right areas of your body using the right colour. When wearing the same colour in different tints and shades, you want to pay attention to how dark or light each piece is. For example, adding a belt would accentuate your waist in the monochromatic colours you have selected. A belt is a great option if your outfit is flowier and you need to add some structure or definition.
- Choose the right monochromatic colours
It is important to select a colour that looks great against your skin tone and hair. For example: If your complexion is very fair, opt to wear navy instead of harsh black. Women with tanned skin and dark hair could opt for a deeper colour like burgundy or eggplant. Perhaps you are confused about which colour of monochromatic outfits, to begin with, start with dark neutrals, like black, navy, grey, and brown. If you are bold, you can also try darker richer monochromatic colours, like burgundy, eggplant, and hunter green.
- Add a touch of pattern
Monochromatic outfits don’t always have to be about solid pieces. You can add patterns or prints but be warned it would be a little more difficult to find a pattern that matches your colour scheme. For drama and personality to break up the solid blocks of colour, add a print piece made up of the same colour you are wearing. For example, adding a patterned shawl or scarf is a good way to spice up your monochromatic outfit.