This spring—for once—fashion is pretty black and white. OK, the Spring 2013 runways were rampant with chiaroscuro ensembles of all stripes, but the beauty of this simply sophisticated look is also its versatility: classic contrast pieces that make for
easy transition from day to night. We rounded up our favourite runway looks—from stripes at Marc Jacobs to tuxedo-inspired looks at Diesel Black Gold—to showcase four ways to wear the season’s essential black and white trend.


Black and white fashion trend lesson: The crisp white blouse

Spring 2013 runway inspiration: Tuxedo-style with a black blazer and white mini at Diesel Black Gold; Oversized and untucked with a short black skirt and
gladiator heels at Alexander Wang.


Your day look:
Crisp and clean (for as long as you can keep it that way), the pressed white blouse works tucked into a pencil skirt or with one of this season’s novel debuts, the carrot pant.

When night falls: A buttoned-up collar leaves room for lightening up on structure elsewhere—think slim black cigarette pants and heels, or with a blazer and shorts for
a killer take on the short suit look.


SLIDESHOW: Top 20 WHITE suits from the Spring 2013 runways

Monochromatic appeal: No grey area here—stark, classic minimalism at its best.

Black and white fashion trend lesson: The checkerboard pattern

Spring 2013 runway inspiration: Black and white and sheer checks all over at Louis Vuitton; optical illusion patterned dress at Marc Jacobs.

Your day look: Go for the never-fail look of a black-and-white checkered or patterned top with a solid bottom—perhaps an
emerald green denim or skirt for a fresh pop of colour this spring.

When night falls: Break up this ultra-mod look with a bright red lip and a
sweet pair of retro shades.


Monochromatic appeal:
High—the checkered pattern is a win this season in both small and overall prints. Your move.


SLIDESHOW: Try the punchy PATTERNED fashion trend this spring

Black and white is back! Read more of our spring 2013 fashion trend lesson on the next page…

Alexander-Wang-bks-A-RS13-3275ca.jpgBlack and white fashion trend lesson: The graphic dress

Spring 2013 runway inspiration: A sweeping asymmetrical one-shouldered gown at Givenchy; Sleeveless white dress with an inky black middle and chiffon finish at Stella McCartney.

Your day look:
A simple LBD with a tailored white blazer worn overtop and nude wedges. The reverse—bright white frock with a black blazer—achieves the same sharp effect.

When night falls:
Look for subtle embellishments to create contrast in an all white or black look. The free-falling frill seen at Balenciaga brings a whimsical play-on-structure to a classic gown.

Monochromatic appeal: An optical illusion twist on a black tie affair.

TREND REPORT: How to wear the latest Spring 2013 fashions

Black and white fashion trend lesson: The striped suit

Spring 2013 runway inspiration: Two-piece black-and-white paneled skirt and top at Jonathan Saunders; Continuous burglar stripes with a blazer and peasant skirt at Dolce & Gabbana.

Your day look: For a monochromatic look like allover stripes, add a colourful hair wrap and brightly coloured sandals to keep it light and fresh.

When night falls:
Swap in strappy python heels for a sophisticated update to this playful ensemble and add a punch-coloured clutch, as if you weren’t bold enough.

Monochromatic appeal: Back in black— and white. Own it.

Read more:
Spring fashion: 10 retro sunglasses
Spring fashion trend lesson: 4 ways to try the mod look

New York style: 5 outfits to get ready for perfect weekend in NYC

Spring fashion: 10 chic trench coats