Tip #1: Stand out in a black-and-white geometric print dress.
Photo: Andres Otero/WENN.com
Model Jessica Stam doesn’t need much to help her stand out, but the black and white pleated frock she wore to the Jeffrey Fashion Cares event in NYC recently helped. The vertical stripes created an optical illusion which emphasized her silhouette, and the contrasting black and white had more punch than colors would have. Pick a mod black and white dress in a bold geometric print and you can still play with color with your accessories, like the yellow t-strap sandals that gave Stam’s look a sunny touch—and reminded me of a Mondrian painting!
1. ModCloth Glamour Power to You Dress – $74.99; 2. Mango Bow Dress – $65; 3. Anya Hindmarch Patent-Leather Envelope Clutch – $350; 4. Athena Geometric Print Dress – $445; 5. J. Renee Staci Black/White T-Strap Pump – $74.95
Tip #2: Layer a white blazer over your LBD.
Photo: B. Downling/WENN.com
I know you already have a LBD, and putting together a black and white look for evening couldn’t be easier than what Miranda Kerr did at a private party for the release of Paul McCartney’s latest music video. The model simply layered a white blazer over a bodycon black dress with mesh cut-outs for an unexpected light outerwear look that’s perfect for spring. Her gold clutch took the elegance of this look up a notch without upsetting the look’s clean color palette.
1. Time Weiland Sweetheart Dress – $524; 2. H&M Blazer – $41; 3. Motel Goldie Bodycon Dress – $80; 4. Modcloth I’m Pumped Heel – $34.99; 5. Monsoon Vintage Shell Clutch – $61
Tip #3: Flip the old white on top, black on bottom for a fresh look.
Photo: Owen Beiny/WENN.com
A white top with black pants or a skirt is a classic look, but it could use a little revamping this season. Amber Heard flipped the color combination on its head, wearing a long black lace tee over cropped white pants for a more fresh look. Like Kerr, she perfectly accessorized the outfit with gold jewelry, sunglasses and oxfords for a look that’s still neutral but so much more chic than if she had simply paired the top with denim.
1. ASOS Marksy Leather Brogue with Contrast Sole – $34.54; 2. J Brand White Mid Rise Skinny Capri – $230; 3. Urban Outfitters Double Hammered Drop Necklace – $29; 4. Sabine Vintage Lace Blouse – $69; 5. The Row Cat Eye Clubmaster Sunglasses – $380