The Black & White Masterclass

We learned in our Contrast class that black and white creates powerful presence. But if you just wear a basic white top and black pants, you look like a waiter. When you completely remove color from an outfit, you must replace it with structural interest.

First, break away from standard, boring fits. Pair something incredibly tight with something dramatically oversized. Try a skin-tight black turtleneck with massive white trousers, or an oversized white men's blazer over tight black leggings.

In our Neutrals class, we learned to mix fabrics. With black and white, you must take this to the extreme because texture is literally replacing your color. Combine matte ribbed knit, shiny black leather, and crisp white cotton all in the exact same outfit.

The final trick to elevating a two-tone look is introducing one graphic pattern. Add a piece featuring black-and-white stripes, houndstooth, or polka dots. This patterned piece acts as a bridge, perfectly tying the solid black and solid white blocks together.

Look at the final, layered result. By combining extreme proportions, clashing textures, and one graphic pattern, the "waiter uniform" is completely gone. You have built a high-fashion, high-contrast look that commands attention without needing a single drop of color.

Go to your closet and build a black-and-white outfit using these three rules. Pick one tight piece, one oversized piece, ensure the fabrics contrast heavily, and finish it with one patterned accessory!