Haute Concept

Black and white are the two colors that will always be in style. However, properly mixing them into a workable outfit can be a conundrum for some guys out there. So, Details breaks down how to effectively pull of the two staple colors that ground any wardrobe.

Unless it’s the day of your best friend’s wedding, your white shirt shouldn’t be starched. Instead, wear a washed one (sleeves rolled up) with a plaid or checked tie, black cotton pants, and—if you’re jaunty enough to pull it off—a straw fedora.
Shirt by Tim Hamilton. Pants by Diesel. Hat by Theory. Tie by Steven Alan.

Marky Ramone may prefer his black jeans beat-up, but if you’re wearing a sweater vest, the denim should be equally refined. Start with an inky fade- and whisker-free pair and add an immaculate white T-shirt and sneakers.
Vest by J. Crew. T-shirt by John Varvatos. Jeans by Levi’s. Watch by Baume & Mercier. Shoes by PF Flyers.

Substituting black for navy prevents a sailor-inspired outfit from looking like a costume. Pair a white V-neck sweater that has thin black stripes with coal-colored jeans and a cropped cardigan in the same shade of black.
Shirt by Dsquared. Jeans by AG Adriano Goldschmied. Sweater by C.P. Company.S

Wearing white from head to toe is usually best left to those serving daiquiris poolside. But you can adapt the look for casual outdoor occasions by adding flashes of black—like a watch or the trim of a henley—in unexpected places.
Henley and jeans by Polo by Ralph Lauren. Watch by Baume & Mercier.

To make white jeans work for a night out, the rest of what you put on should be simple but substantial—a black crewneck sweater in lightweight cashmere and a slim-fitting field jacket, for example. Skip the sneakers in favor of shiny black brogues.
Jacket by Maison Martin Margiela. Sweater by Claiborne. T-shirt by Banana Republic. Jeans by Diesel. Shoes by Church’s.

A black cardigan, a collared shirt, and jeans work for most social settings. But for a sharper alternative, try subbing in a black-and-white gingham shirt and white pants. The only accessory the relaxed, old-Hollywood look needs is an elegant watch.
Cardigan by Band of Outsiders. Shirt and pants by DKNY Jeans. Watch by David Yurman.

Only 4-year-olds and proper southern gentlemen can pull off seersucker suits in sorbet colors. But in black and white, the summer suit is stylish, grown-up, and office appropriate. Wear it with a white shirt, a black tie, and a pocket square.
Suit by Etro. Shirt by Claiborne. Tie by Hickey. Pocket square by Gucci.

Content source: Details