Neutral Winter Monochrome

To be honest, I have not adjusted to the cold yet. The temperatures are starting to drop and we've officially reached below zero temperatures and beyond. It's funny how every year you know it's coming, but when it hits, it hits hard! And, no matter how prepared you feel, you just aren't! Just before the holidays, I got together with a bunch of gorgeous Toronto bloggers to celebrate Rebeca's birthday. We went to Colette when the decor is stunning. Picture floor to ceiling windows, white marble tables and French themed accents everywhere. It's beyond Parisian chic and a blogger's dream restaurant. I really wanted to wear something signature and fitting of the venue, aka pastels (specifically this skirt), but I could not fathom going bare legs! I finally decided on a pair of ivory trousers and this sweater...again, because I'm obsessed with the statement sleeves. I wanted to change the look of the sweater since I've been wearing it non-stop, so I added a glam necklace, but this wasn't enough. I took it a step further by throwing a shimmery gold crop top on top of the turtleneck. Not only did it switch up the look completely, and add an extra sparkle to the outfit, it kept me nice and toasty!

I would have never thought to pair the crop top with a sweater, but you know I am all about making the most out of what you have in your closet! These pieces are definitely from my summer wardrobe, but they work so well in winter, too! They make for such a monochromatic look that I'm loving. Don't you think? Also, how do you feel about the slip dress on top look? This crop top over mock neck look is sort of another take on it, and I'm feeling it!

So, put away those thick black tights and make the most out of what you have! There's always another possibility.

What I'm Wearing:
Zara drawstring trousers (on sale!), Simons mock neck knit (similar, similar), Shop for Jayu necklace, Forever 21 crop top (similar on sale!), Sam Edelman pumps, Sophie Hulme Albion Tote in charcoal

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Tips For Going Monochrome

There is something so fresh and inviting about an all neutral outfit, don't cha think? Last weekend I took full advantage of the brief stint of spring-like weather we had and went bare legged! I love playing with different tones of neutrals to give off such an effortless, yet put together look, regardless of the season. Whenever the sun is shinning it's like I am compelled to wear lighter, or brighter tones. It just ups my mood and makes me most happy. Since this day was the first mild, sunny day in a bit of time I guess I went all out!

Although there definitely isn't a formula for going monochrome, there are a few rules I like to follow while decked out in the same colour palette. 

1. Play with the shapes. Combining a tight fitting skirt with a more loose fitting pullover really gives some definition to the outfit. Tucking in the pullover forces the waist to become the point of interest and keeps the outfit from looking like a shapeless, long garbage bag (am I right?).
2. Mix up the textures. The sweater is knit, the skirt is cotton and although both pieces are ribbed, the ribs are different widths, which is more visually appealing. The marble-esque bag also adds in another textural element and creates another point of interest. On a side note-- do you believe I almost sold this bag because I didn't think I'd wear it enough?!! Crazy, I know. SO glad I hung onto it! 
3. Combine shades. Each piece is of a different temperature, but they totally complement each other when paired together. I love going monochrome for this reason; it allows you to pull unlikely pieces together and create something beauteous! 

Add in some fun jewels and some low booties (this was a Sunday afternoon, after all) and you are ready to rock!

Do you have any rules or guidelines you like to follow when going monochrome? I'd love to hear! 

What I'm wearing:

J Crew (similar) pullover

Forever 21 skirt (similar)

Rebecca Minkoff bag (sold out)

Sam Edelman boots

Aldo cuff, Shop for Jayu ring

Modern Monochrome

If monochrome consists of varying tones of only one colour, why does the term evoke bold coloured suits and teased hair that was so prevalent in the 90's (think Saved by the Bell). I love the idea of wearing various shades of one colour! You can customize the hues to your liking, and it provides a fresh look. It's no surprise that blue is my go-to, so I paired my favourite mint bag with lighter jeans and a deeper coloured peplum top. For a pop of colour, and to keep the outfit from looking too put together, I threw on a pink statement necklace and some favoured bracelets. I think it's safe to say that going monochrome can be an exciting way to make a professional, crisp statement, while moving away from the all black or all white ensembles. 

{Top- Smart Set, Jeans- Material Girl, Purse- Coach, Necklace- Forever 21}