We all remember Harper from Wizards of Waverly Place and wondered– how can someone wear just one singular color? Taking a break from the standard outfit that incorporates complementary colors, people everywhere are sporting monochromatic outfits by exploring the color palette of an individual color. This is done using different hues and shades, adding contrast and more.
Understanding Color
Color varies depending on the shade and often changes with different colors and grayscale. When building your monochromatic outfit, choose a singular color and take a look at the different shades incorporated within it.
Same Hue or Shade
We can all take some notes when it comes to the looks worn by fashion models, including how they wear their monochromatic outfits. Monochromatic, meaning “containing or using one color” according to dictionary.com, is demonstrated in streetwear looks, as well as a more dressed up version, by both Hailey Bieber and Gigi Hadid.
Both models styled their clothing items using the exact same shade of their designated color (red and orange), showing uniformity. Finding the exact same shade of one color can be stressful and time-consuming, but oftentimes can be found when shopping for matching sets. Sets are made with the same color for both the top and the bottoms, making it hassle-free to create your monochromatic outfit.
Using Contrast
Using contrast is essentially the same as adding a variety of shades. This could be done by lightening the designated color or increasing the gap in shades. Think of creating your outfit as editing your pictures on VSCO. Playing with different shades allows for dimension to be created within the look itself.
Kim Kardashian-West and Jessica Alba bring dimension to their monochromatic outfits by exploring the shades of blue and peach. Whether you’re going to your 9 a.m. class or dinner with family, this look can be achieved in the simplest of ways. Look inside your closet and you can work with just about any colors you have.
Adding Texture
Nothing—and we mean nothing—adds more flare than combining more than one texture in a look. Denim, satin, mesh, sherpa, chenille, boa—the list could go on and on. Working with texture by using different materials continues to add dimension to the look and allows you to add creativity and a personal touch to your outfit.
Both affordable and luxury items can create these monochromatic looks, so no need to worry about your budget. Instagram fashion influencer, Oanh, pushes her boundaries by not only creating and wearing monochromatic outfits on a regular basis but by adding touches with texture to elevate her looks to the next level. Jennifer Lopez, a fashion, music and acting connoisseur, used sequins to bring this blue monochromatic outfit to life while pairing it with three other textures in her jacket and accessories.
What and Where
Whether creating a monochromatic outfit is easy or hard for you, VALLEY is here to give you a jumpstart for the perfect outfits!
For matching sets, go to any one of your favorite online shopping websites and search ‘sets’ or ‘matching sets.’ You should be able to find exactly what you’re looking for, and don’t forget that you can filter it to your desired color. Sites offer a variety of sets in different colors, textures and types.
If you were inspired by Gigi Hadid’s orange outfit, Pretty Little Thing’s Orange Crepe Cut Out Jumpsuit gives the same bold and bright monochromatic effect.
For creating contrast, determine what piece you want to differ and filter out options online to the designated color until a style catches your eye. Online stores that offer a variety of statement pieces include ASOS, Revolve, Urban Outfitters and A Tablespoon of Aeie.
If Oanh’s statement bottoms inspired you, FashionNova offers their Victoria High Waisted Dress Pants in a variety of colors–perfect for any color you want to create a look with.
To find pieces to add texture to an outfit, it might require a little more digging. Sites like The Ragged Priest are experts at incorporating a variety of textures into their pieces.
The Venus Top from The Ragged Priest is the shirt modeled by Oanh in her Instagram post. It’s sure to bring texture to your monochromatic outfit.
Monochromatic outfits are perfect for any occasion, budget, desired look, size and more. Working with the items in your closet and indulging in everyone’s favorite pastime (shopping), you’ll be able to create your own monochromatic looks in no time.
Tag us on Instagram @VALLEYmag with your monochromatic looks!
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