Goodwill Fashion Expert—Bjorn Nasett

Bjorn Nasett - Goodwill Fashion ExpertBe sure to read Bjorn's weekly column for great advice. If you have specific questions send him an email at askbjorn@goodwillsew.com.

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Seeing Fall in Black and White Terms

Posted by Jamie Klinger-Krebs on Nov 2, 2012 8:28:00 AM

black and whiteClassic is never out of style. Take for instance that age-old marriage of inky black and milky white. These polar color opposites are always interpreted and re-interpreted each fashion season. Why? The simple answer, of course, is because they can work their stylish magic on everyone. Given the long history of this dynamic duo, which can encompass everything from a white skull and cross bones on a pirate flag, to a chic Chanel-inspired ensemble from the 1920’s, the combination has definite staying power when it comes to classic wardrobe building. While the “tuxedo look” can often feel stark and cold, I’ll show you some easy ways to warm up to this fall trend.

First, the big warning I have for you here is that the combo of black pants and white shirt can become a waiter/waitress uniform in the blink of an eye. Not that there’s anything remotely wrong with that - unless you want people to give you their lunch and dinner orders. Start your foray into the non-color spectrum at the Goodwill Store and Donation Center near you where you’ll find just about everything you need to rock the look without appearing like a server. Here’s a few of my ideas for taking these stark contrasts of tonality into the realm of fashion for your fall wardrobe ...

black and whiteTextured marbled knits that feature black and white are a good start for a lot of people. The interplay of different yarns creates a softer contrast that still comes across as interesting. In this category I would also include woven fabrics like windowpane plaids, herringbone, tweed and hound’s-tooth. These fabrics still bring in the black and white, but with a smaller pattern. They can also act like a neutral when paired with other more colorful items in your closet.

black and whiteColor blocking is a very modern and more extreme example of the use of black and white in fashion. Back in the good old days, when films were ONLY in black and white, graphic designs became more important than ever before in fashion history. We’re still feeling the influence of the clean, architectural, design aesthetic of the 1920’s and 30’s today. Whether it’s a 1960’s mod-inspired mini dress that features bold geometric designs or a stark white silk blouse paired with a giant black bow and black skirt.

black and whitePattern plays an important role in creating a crisp black and white look. Consider looking for a geometric patterned piece in classic stripes, polka dots, or graphic print. On another note, black and white floral patterns can be tricky, but as long as they don’t feel too much like summer, they can work for winter weather. You could easily take a summer print dress you already have and pair it with leggings and a black knit cardigan over it to create a sophisticated fall look. 

The possibilities of having fun with this trend are indeed endless. But if you take a few tidbits and tips from this column, maybe you’ll be inspired to take a trip to your local Goodwill where you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to score some of that old black and white magic for yourself!

Topics: Goodwill, Bjorn Nasett, Fashion, Fashion Trends, Fashion Expert