Black & White trend

Hello NSMV readers! Some things just look better in black and white: old movies, delicious Oreo cookies, Instagram photos, and now, your Spring wardrobe. No two tones play better together. Pairing black and white separates is a bold statement, that’s achievable for fashion lovers everywhere, regardless of your budget and accessibility to fast fashion stores. A comfy pair of white denim and a casual or dressy black top is a super easy and virtually effortless way to dominate this trend. If you are a little daring try mixing textures to keep things a little interesting. The bonus is that both black and white work well with colors, so you can re-wear your pieces summer, fall, and even winter. Let’s face it you can’t go wrong with classic black and white!

Tory Burch Magnus Striped Blazer | Look 4 less

My personal style includes a mixture of classic designer pieces and inexpensive trendy items. When I saw this striped blazer by Tory Burch , I knew there was a designer space for it in my closet. The simple shape is given a new look with nautical stripes. I’m already running imaginary outfits through my head!

If you want to add a little stripes into your wardrobe, but don’t want to drop a whole load of your hard earned money, then this ASOS Warehouse Stripe Tailored Blazer is an excellent option. The shape and stripes get the job done. If you still have your mind set on gold nautical buttons, only a few money and a needle and thread will do the trick.

 

Look 4 less | Isabel Marant | Lauryn Blouse

The only designer who could make a Western style outfit look insanely cool and fashionable would have to be “Designer of the moment“, Madame Isabel Marant! Her Fall 2012 collection had a clear Western/cowgirl theme going on and even though I probably wouldn’t wear a head-to-toe look from that collection myself in order to avoid looking like I am disguising myself and trying too hard, there are definitely a number of items which I wouldn’t mind having in my wardrobe. I’m not sure what to think of this particular yoked cowgirl shirt though, especially not after seeing the hefty price tag!

Isabel Marant Lauryn Embroidered Crepe Blouse
($965, NET-A-PORTER)

If you’re an Isabel Marant fangirl on a tight budget, try this Marant-inspired shirt by Dorothy Perkins to get the same cowgirl look. It’s not a 1:1 copy, but the inspiration is quite obvious to see here. Currently on sale for only $29!

Dorothy Perkins Embroidered Yoke Western Shirt
($29, Dorothy Perkins)

Shopping tip: : Get 15% off your first order when you sign up to the DP newsletter!

P.S.: Also available at Dorothy Perkins (UK).

How to wear Grey, Charcoal & Smoke

Generally, it’s safe to wear standard grey with any other color along with its monochromatic shades. Grey color is like black and white—a wardrobe staple that never goes out of season. A neutral color, grey can almost be worn with every shade.

Basic Staples

In the world of wardrobes, it’s time to take inventory of the staples in your closet. We’ve all got some tees and jeans that have seen better days. Retire them and bring in a new guard that can carry you through the whole year.

T-SHIRTS Black, white, or grey. Dressed up or down. T-shirts are the foundation of any closet. Stock up on two or three of each color.
DENIM If you’re like most of mortals you’ve got a stack of jeans in your closet, and you only wear about three pairs. Set those three aside and get rid of the rest (if they’re barely worn, donation is always a great option). Your closet will be organized, and you won’t feel guilty when you pick up a new pair
SWEATERS Plush knits make morning dressing truly effortless—perfect for casual Saturdays. Build out your own stack of classic stripes, solids, and polka dots
BUTTON-DOWNS The classic that defines staple dressing, even a wrinkled shirt feels refined, thanks to its tailored detailing. Every closet needs a plaid, chambray, and white version, and it doesn’t hurt to sprinkle in a few other prints and solid shades.