Black and White and Chic All Over

Ever been invited for an event where the dress code stated Smart Casuals? If you're anything like me, you've spent hours wondering what to wear to strike the perfect balance between formals and casuals?

Smart casual is just a polite way of saying, “dressy attire for this event isn't required, but please 

don’t wear what you would to go grocery shopping or visiting your grandmother on the weekends.” 

Trust me, I know pulling off a casual look can be tricky for work and for weekends because giving a casual outfit a little extra polish, does require some styling. Another thing, you CAN'T go wrong with black and white. Hence, monochrome smart casuals! That’s right, you can wear absolutely no colour and still look completely stunning.

Black and white is an eternal combination— it's one of the few trends that never seems to go out of style – like denim, checks and an LBD. From the traditional “B & W formal attire,” Monochrome is 

now making its way into the Smart Casual wardrobe. And while I'm all about the classic formal 

look, it’s time to experiment with it. 

Monochrome – the Casual Way

Whether it’s for college or Casual Friday, I'm letting you in on some of my favourite tips to amp up your Monochrome ensemble, and make it as interesting as any rainbow-worthy style. 

Let white take center-stage.

I know it's hard to get used to wearing a lot of white. Try highlighting white in your smart casual wardrobe… I promise once you try it, you won't look back.  Start out with staples like black  leggings, jeans or a skater skirt, and then go bright with a white frilly blouse or pullover. Accessorise  with a white hat, wedges or a handbag. And accentuate your look with chunky black jewellery to bring it all together.

Layer Away!

The key to making a muted or monochrome outfit work is all in the layering. If you're going black and white, try to incorporate a pattern or two like a button down jacket with a contrasting tank top. For college, a T-back with a B&W checkered scarf and leggings would get you an A+ in style. 

Accent with grey.

Pairing black and white with reds and neon colours is old school. There’s a smarter way to add a shade to your monochrome look that’s modern and refreshing: A light, chalky grey. Accent your outfit with a grey belt, scarf or shrug. 

Play with texture.

Getting casual is not just about donning cotton clothes, try out new fabrics and textures with the monochrome scheme and never go wrong. Experiment with leather jackets, lacy tops, Georgette 

blouses, and suede shoes.

So girls, next time you get an invitation that says “Smart Casuals,” try going monochrome with these handy tips and notice the heads turn ;)