One for All: Monochromatic Dressing for Fall and Winter

Monochromatic dressing is a major trend this fall, and we don’t want anyone to miss out on this classic and elegant styling choice because she doesn’t know where to start. Monochromatic fashion, which means wearing only one color from head to toe, has its roots in modern art and was once considered avant garde. But it’s a much more mainstream look now and easier to assemble with lots of great examples from this year’s fashion weeks.

Keep this one simple practice in mind when wearing a monochromatic ensemble: it’s important to vary the tones of your one color from piece to piece within your outfit. This will help you to avoid looking too matchy-matchy or costume-y, and will create some definition for the most flattering appearance possible.

We’ve chosen five colors from which to build five monochromatic looks. Each one is super different on the surface, but using the rule of tone variance above helped us pull them all together with ease.

MONOCHROMATIC DRESSING: NAVY

Navy is the color of pure class. Even with slouchy pants , it’s hard to make navy look lazy. Also, prints are a great way to add tonal interest while staying on theme.

Clockwise from top left
Leia Top in Navy by Reformation
Felted Coat in Dark Blue Plaid by H&M
Multistrand Collar Necklace in Blue Multi by Nakamol Design
Velvet Slouchy Ankle Pant in Midnight by Eileen Fisher
Abby Clog in Navy by MIA

MONOCHROMATIC DRESSING: CREAM

“No white after Labor Day” is widely discredited these days, but I think ladies are still reluctant to embrace the liberation. Wearing white or cream in “cold weather” fabrics, such as fleece or faux fur, makes it all better we promise!

Clockwise from top left
Ayana Cotton-Terry Wide-Leg Pants in Ivory by Ulla Johnson
Angela Fleece Pullover in White by Urban Outfitters
Tote Bag with Knotted Detail in Ecru by Zara
Cha Cha Tassel Earrings in Gold/Cream by Lulus
Niah Faux Fur Slippers in Beige by Target

MONOCHROMATIC DRESSING: RED

The boldest of the bold wear red! My favorite thing about this outfit is the variety of red tones side by side–from candy apple red to pinot noir.

Clockwise from top left
Faux Shearling Colored Coat in Red by Zara
Velvet Twist-Front Jumpsuit in Pinot Noir by Madewell
Kip Earring in Red Marble Acrylic by Rachel Comey
Surit Flats in Bright Red by Bill Blass
Harper Mini Satchel in Brick Red by J. Crew

MONOCHROMATIC DRESSING: BEIGE/TAN

We’re using another print–leopard–here to break up the solids but stay within the neutral color palette. The versatility of this monochromatic look allows you to throw on some beige sneakers in place of the flats and instantly channel weekend vibes.

Clockwise from top left
Leopard Print Coat by Zara
Lantern Sleeve Mock Neck Sweater Dress in Camel/Beige by Banana Republic Factory
Drew Sunglasses in Nude by Ceri Hoover
Malou Square Crossbody Bag in Grey by Day & Mood
Sarai D’Orsay Flat in Ash Suede by ABLE