Four Tips to Perfect Your Monochromatic Look
Photo: Emir Lake Photos
Last week’s presidential inauguration was historic for many reasons, including the current political climate and the COVID-19 pandemic. But I’d like to put those things aside and focus on the amazing fashions worn during the event— most notably the stunning monochromatic ensembles.
Current First Lady Dr. Jill Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, and former First Lady Michelle Obama sported stunning monochromatic looks in rich highly saturated colors. Jennifer Lopez also came through with an equally fabulous all white ensemble, and I was mesmerized.
Monochromatic looks include wearing the same shade or variation of a color throughout your outfit. This could potentially include, but is not limited to suits or sets. For example, you could be wearing a cream-colored suit, topped off with a cream-colored coat in a slightly darker shade, paired with a cream-colored handbag and shoes. The pieces in the suit were made to be worn together, but the inclusion of the similarly-colored coat, bag and shoes, add continuity to the look and emphasize the theme.
Wearing a monochromatic look is a great way to make a fashion statement, and the look can be achieved with neutral and bold colors — so regardless of your color preferences, just about anyone can pull it off. To perfect your monochromatic style, I have outlined four tips to guide you through the process.
Wear Different Shades in the Same Color Family
Monochromatic does not mean “matchy matchy.” If your items aren’t purchased as part of a set or from the same designer, dye lot, etc., don’t fret. Wearing the same exact shade from head to toe isn’t necessarily the way to go. Use slight variations in tone within the same color family, including darker and lighter hues, to make your look interesting.
This cream and tan shoppable collection is inspired by Jennifer Lopez’s inauguration look — but instead of including all white pieces, I have included white, off white, cream, and tan styles. An all white look is breathtaking, but combining whites, tans, and creams is a great interpretation of a monochromatic look in a neutral palette.
2. Combine Different Textures
The second tip to help you achieve a great monochromatic look is to pair different textures, creating dimension and intensifying your look. Think about combinations that include leather, silk, fur, wool, and patent leather.
This shoppable collection, inspired by Michelle Obama’s inauguration outfit, includes a combination of merlot, cranberry, and burgundy items, that can be layered to created to create a multi-dimensional look.
3. Include a Pattern in the Same Color Palette
Monochromatic does not mean sticking to solids. Adding a pattern in the same or similar shade will add a cool style element to your outfits. Include a patterned belt, scarf, blouse, skirt, shoes, etc.
This collection below includes complementary colors, different textures, and animal prints.
4. Keep it Simple
Your color palette will take center stage, so select pieces with clean lines and simple cuts so your garments are not competing with one another.
These four tips will help you create a stylish and polished monochromatic look. Start by using the existing pieces in your wardrobe and round them out with a few items from the collections I pulled together for you.
Thank you for reading, and please visit me again soon.