Monochromatic Looks Made Easy.

Growing up, I loved watching the film, The Wiz. Originally a Broadway musical, the 1978 film adaptation is a testament to Black culture, creativity, and imagination. Although there are many great parts within the film, the Emerald City number has always been my favorite. During this scene, Dorothy and her friends are captivated by the Emerald City citizens, as they sashay around the central plaza changing their clothes from green, to red, to gold at the Wizard’s command.  This scene’s combination of fashion and music not only excited me when I was a child, it was also my first introduction to the use of monochromatic colors within style.

You’re probably wondering, ‘What are monochromatic colors?’ To put it simply, a monochromatic color is single color. A monochromatic color scheme is an extension of a single color, where black, white, or grey is added to create various tones, shades, and tints.

“Denim jeans are a great way to understand what a monochromatic color scheme is.”

I love monochromatic looks because they are a helpful way to create stunning ensembles that are effortless to put together. The following are some of my favorite tricks to pulling off a single-colored look:

The Color Is…:

Formulating a primary color scheme within an outfit is easy. A great starting point is to begin with a color that you like. Arguably, everyone gravitates to a particular color when selecting items for their wardrobe, so this first step should be a breeze! Once you have selected a color, scavenge for clothes within your closet that are a part of your base color’s extended scheme.  For example, if I wanted to create an ensemble with purple as the primary color, then I would look for colors like lilac, lavender, plum, etc. to include in my outfit.

Don’t be afraid to play with patterns and contrasting shades and tints within your look. If you choose to incorporate a pattern, I would encourage you to complement the patterned piece with solid-colors. This way, your assembled pieces will not compete with each other for attention.

“If you’re not seen in green. You better be wearing jade.”

Tone It Down with Earth Tones:

If you are uncomfortable with using patterns or experimenting with multiple tints and shades, then substituting in neutral colors can help.

“Catch me in dead, red.”

Pairing a base color with beige, white, or black helps tone down the energy of the primary color and will complement it seamlessly.

“Me searching for my nonexistent rubies, so I can wear them on my nonexistent yacht.”

Get Funky with It:

Having fun with a monochromatic look doesn’t have to stop at color. Playing with textures, metallics, and fibers can also be a site for experimentation! So, bring out those corduroy pants that have been at the back of your closet for ages. Put on that Elton John-esque jacket with the funky glitter collar. Whatever item that you have hesitated to wear in the past, go for it if it fits within the color scheme of your outfit!

“Gold. It’s the ultimate yellow brick.”

Whatever color you choose for your monochromatic look, make sure that you are having fun while putting it together. Comment below and let me know what color you would choose for a monochromatic outfit, or tag me @calandra_mcgee on Instagram so I can see your colored creation! 

I’ll see you on the stoop.

Calandra M.