Monochromatic

As much as Calvin Harris pleaded for us to ‘get some colours on’ you cannot deny the lasting power of a monochromatic silhouette. Having stood the test of time its flattering aesthtic can’t be bettered. Though colours were in abundance pre-50’s, most of the world was viewing it in black and white. In fact I often find it difficult to imagine stylish pioneers such as Mr. Astaire and the Duke of Windsor so sharply cut in colour. It is through this osmosis of seeing classy dressers in black and white thanks to the worlds lack of technicolour that almost tricks us into thinking of black and white as well-cut and classy.

It is, of course, also associated with style and decadence through occasion (LBD’s and black tie formality), and iconic dressers wearing it with aplomb. Andy Warhol, Karl Lagerfeld, Michael Jackson, Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn were all fine exponents of the simple but effective palette, using them to raise their stature, profile and fame. This being surely one of the most iconic images of the past two decades, which is no mean feat….

Part of the intrigue with sticking to black and white clothing is the interest and variety that can be obtained simply within two shades. By keeping the palette so neutral the details, cut and shape are able to be the centre of focus. Designers have spent whole collections or even careers focusing on this alone, or at least flirting with it for a look or two in their collection. Ann Demeulemeester has long been a fine exponent of the all black look, toying with shape, form, proportion and details in varying degrees and this season is no exception, as you can see below, her extension of tailoring (below) silk edged blazers, silk top hat and proportion challenging shirt sleeves, all capped off with boots to solidify and ruched trousers to add volume to the slim silhouette.

Image Courtesy of gq.com/style

Another fine example of black detailing this season comes from Julius with their 277COM8 Knit Coat (below).

Image courtesy of helloblackbird.blogspot.com

It shows wonderful depth and texture, belying a more mundane description of ‘black overcoat’. One of it’s strengths is it’s versatility, the layered lapel being able to be used in many forms as seen at BlackBird. I challenge you all to raid your wardrobe and play with these two shades for the next week and just see how much more experimental you can be by steering away from your go to uniform of jeans and top….

Such versatility from one coat!