Bernie’s mittens weren’t the only Inauguration Day look that captured our attention. Monochromatic outfits were donned by fashionable attendees in every age group!
The word “monochromatic” breaks down into two pieces: “mono” meaning single and “chromatic” meaning color. So a monochromatic outfit would consist of pieces in one color.
Monochromatic outfits are a top trend right now for a reason – they can be worn at any time of the day or year, convey a polished and chic appearance, and have the added bonus of being slimming when kept simple! Have you considered wearing a monochromatic outfit but shied away for fear of being too matchy-matchy, or looking too plain? We’ve got some tips to help you get started.
Photo Credit: Getty Images
1. Start Simple. If you hear “monochromatic” and don’t know where to start or have terrible flashes of matching sweater vests. Don’t fret. Your first step is maybe the simplest, start by selecting the color you want to wear. Pick a color that you want to start with, make sure the color is one that looks great against your skin tone and hair, and that you feel comfortable in. The joy of the monochromatic fashion trend is the versatility! You can start simple with something like this gorgeous emerald green suit worn by @browneyesdreaming or this chic blazer with varying red tones that @cassidy.burel is rocking!
Pairing different shades and tints of the same color or add fun pop works too! Harness the full visual impact of monochromatic by creating an outfit using a single color in a variety of its hues and shades to make encompass the current fashion trend. Shopping Triad Goodwill, makes it super easy because all of our sections are sorted by color!
Credits:
Photos: @truvisionmedia
Styling: @eutashastylesharewood
Revamped Triad Goodwill Suit: @cassidy.burel
2. Don’t just stick with solids. Bring some complexity to your monochromatic outfit by starting with a small print in a color you love. Then, find the base color and mix in different shades with your other pieces. Simple or muted prints can subtly add some visual richness to the single-color look.
Slipintostyle on Instagram paired a cute printed dress with a puffy coat and some cut off jeans, then brought the look together with a unique and clutch and shoes that mimic the colors from the print.
Texture is a great way to play with monochrome look that will bring variety and richness to the look. Some texture combinations you can try pairing together are denim and chiffon, leather and cotton, suede and silk, wool and sequins.
And don’t forget your shoes or boots when it comes to texture. They play a role in adding interest to your outfit. Consider how leather, patent, suede, or satin shoes will work with the outfit you’re trying to create.
Photo Credit @slipintostyle on IG
3. Add a “third piece” to match what you’ve got. You can easily build a monochrome outfit based around an item from your closet! A cross-body bag, a belt, or a jacket can make the look feel “complete” and help to blend your items together. Accessories are the small often overlooked pieces that bring any look together, monochromatic or otherwise!
The varying shades of this pretty pink outfit are all tied together with this adorable lace print clutch. And The simple and elegant jewelry mirrored by the silver within the clasp.
So there you have it! Creating a well put together monochromatic outfit doesn’t have to be daunting or “matchy matchy” Just follow these simple rules and you’ll be able to pull together a look that will have you looking and feeling like a star!
Photo Credit: Getty images
This post is adapted from an article that appeared in the Goodwill Industries of Southern Piedmont newsroom. Read the full blog post.
