The Black & White Picture

Simply call it Black and White or give it the latest ‘it’ term ‘Monochrome’; the classy two-tone look has made an appearance back at the runways and streets. Big names like Balmain, Chanel, Valentino and Marc Jacobs have all stirred up the runway with Monochrome through their A/W2012 and S/S2013 collections. And why not? Since in this sea of trends it’s hard to differentiate yourself, black and white sets you apart effortlessly. After facing the print storm of Spring Summer 2012 fashion weeks, B&W runway trend has acted like a cleanser in the chaos. 

Play with contrast accessories while keeping B&W in the background. The tint of colour will make the colour stand out. You don’t have to pull out all your big guns for those special dates. Just finish the duo with bright lips, some gold-tone jewellery and pulled back hair to make a bold statement. 

Want to do the monochrome look. Take a leaf out of Koovs' Spring/Summer 2013 Monoplay collection.

1. Sequin Detail Leggings: Getting extra style points for its versatility, this pair of trousers is made for both office and out. These slim fit, mid-rise and ankle-showing pants fit the criteria of in-trend, statement pants!

Hot Tip: Pair it with a white upper and let the opposites attract. Add contrast heels and swept back hair to heighten-up sophistication.

2. Bold Striped Maxi Skirt: Stripes seem to top the never-out-of-fashion list. Tap the trend with this striking skirt from KOOVS. B&W combo makes both colours pop out.

Hot Tip: This skirt, a body-con top and statement heels, Girl, you are ready to hit the high street!

3. KOOVS Jersey Outline Midi Dress: A LBD with a monochrome twist, this midi dress is a must-have for every fashionista. Its contrasting criss-crossing lines make the dress wearable for even plus size figure.

Hot Tip: Break the lines with a bright belt or pair it with black tights fail-safe look.

4. Square Frame PrintedSunglasses: Now that’s a how classic gets new avatar. Patent square frame turns funky in B&W print on these cool sunglasses from Carlton London.

Hot Tip: Add these to your monochrome casual or single-coloured dressing and let the pair speak your style.

5. White watch with H-Shape Dial: With the dial set in the shape of brand's iconic 'H' initial, this Hilfiger timepiece works well for both boardroom & party. The rose gold finish at the edges brings an affluent feel to the watch. Sturdy white straps of this analogue complete its fashion-function feature. 

Hot Tip: Add a bohemian twist by wrapping some metal-finish bracelets along. 

6. Studded White Sandals: This season, we just can’t get enough of studded pieces in our wardrobe. These white wedge-heel sandals with studs glamorously set on the multiple straps are a cool take on the rock and roll style.

Hot Tip: Work this pair with anything from ethnic to western. Matching white accessories would be a plus point.

Pastels Reign

2012 was the year of neons. The psychedelic shades now give way to pastels in summer 2013. No matter if it’s in print or plain, bright pastel shades like Nectarine (Peach), powder blue, emerald and pumpkin orange are set to have their moment! Remember the ice-cream sundae that we’d love to have during school days? Not sure of the ice-cream but its appetizing colours have made a comeback on the runways of world famous designers.

These delectable pastel shades such as dusty coral pink, mint, candyfloss, egg shell blue, flooded the Spring/Summer 2013 runways of Missoni, Bottega Veneta, Versace, Gucci and Roberto Cavalli.  

Here’s how to do this dreamy cosmic pastel trend:-

• Don’t overdo the pastels: Think while styling pastels. Too much of these might end up making you look like a creamy cupcake. Break the monotony with contrast jewellery.

• Layer the Pastels: The best way to do the pastels without looking monotone top-to-toe is to layer it with other shades. Make a pastel’y palette by picking different colours.

• Breaking the monotony: Add neutral shades like black, white, stone, camel and beige to mellow-down the pastel shades. Like adding all-black accessories to a dusty pink dress would turn it into a sophisticated ensemble from a rather cute-looking one. It is a great colour combo and can also be combined with black based prints. 

• Pastel Hair: Remember My Little Pony, the fantasy hair colour of those ponies is now having its time in beauty industry! Not only reserved for apparel, pastels are being tried on hair too. 

Whether you stick to a single colour, mix and match different strands or put pastel shaded clip-ons, the soft breezy pastels would evoke a whimsical feel to your look.