How-to Wear a Monochrome Outfit
What is Monochrome?
"Monochrome" means wearing all one color, and it's one of the easiest ways to look chic and pulled together. A monotone look is a staple outfit formula for those with Sleek Chic or Minimalist style, but can work for basically every personal style type. All you have to do is wear one color—easy right?
A word of warning
Sometimes a monochrome look can feel boring, unconsidered, or a bit "much" depending on what color you're wearing head-to-toe. For example, I'd caution against lime green, but hey, if that’s your style, go for it!
If you’re new here, I’m Missy of Simplified Wardrobe, an Ethical Personal Stylist & Capsule Wardrobe Curator. I help ambitious and eco-conscious womxn who want to look great, feel confident, and simplify their lives.
Find more information about personal style, capsule wardrobes, and color analysis over on Instagram. You can also download my free 10-page Guide to Defining your Personal Style.
Here are 3 ways to pull off a monochrome look:
1. Mix Tones
Pair several different tones, tints, and shade of the same color:
Tone = Added gray
Tint = Added white
Shade = Added black
In these examples, an all pink look could have been overwhelming and the caramel could have been boring, but because they mixed together different values, everything still goes together nicely and the looks are still interesting.
2. Mix Textures
Using one color, play with the fabrics and textures to add interest. In one of these examples, it could have looked strange to pair a thick, casual sweater with something so fancy as a sequined skirt, but because they're the same color, it works.
3. #AllBlackEverything
Black always matches black. It never looks too showy or too boring. This also applies to whatever your “black” is, depending on your Color Type. Remember, black isn’t universally flattering. In fact, true black only works on one Color Type (True Winter). However, every type has their version of black, whether it’s charcoal gray, chocolate brown, or navy. I'd still recommend mixing up the textures and/or shapes, but overall, when in doubt, make it “black”.
If you want to know your best colors, I wrote a 2-part series all about determining your best colors. Start with this blog post about determining your undertone (and overtone.)
If you’d prefer to have it “done-for-you,” I also offer professional Personal Color Analysis services.
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