it’s back to basics with black and white. the power of neutrals never fails. if you want a timeless, classic, and sophisticated outfit, reach for black and white. whenever i’m in doubt as to what to wear, i typically reach for classic wardrobe staples. these are the items in your closet that are the workhorses. no, they’re not sexy, there are no ruffles or bows, no sequins, and they never scream attention. instead, wardrobe staples are steady and true, simplistic, and will have you walking out the door looking pulled together in under five minutes. if you haven’t read my wardrobe basics series, start with this post that goes in-depth.
casa djalali has received a little TLC the past few months. and let me tell you the results are a-ma-zing! new master bathroom, fresh landscaping in the front and back yards, and now the basement. what a difference! this weekend, i put in a little elbow grease behind a few projects both inside and outside the house. let me assure you i am pooped! the downstairs guest room that one of my kiddos recently vacated after his year-long sojourn with yours truly looks fantastic! Ralph Lauren came to my rescue once again with a perfectly preppy plaid quilt and shams that remind me of my teenage bedroom. the walls are painted Hale navy, so shades of green, pink, and blue were the perfect additions. the room is so inviting i just might camp out there from time to time.
back to basics with black and white
the beauty of a black and white color combo is that it’s very traditional and classic yet modern and contemporary. while i love to add color into my wardrobe, whenever i want a classic look, i always head back to the basics with black and white. white jeans from Frame that feature a high waist with a slim straight leg are my favorite. they look fantastic with a black turtleneck from Banana Republic. a sweater and blue jeans are simple outfits that never fail. add a duster cardigan sweater with a beautiful drape. it’s the perfect third layer for a crisp fall day. to add a little pizazz, i opted for zebra print haircalf smoking slippers. Ann Taylor and Banana Republic have them in stock. accessories like shoes, scarves, and handbags are the easiest way to add color or pattern to an outfit without going over the top. the cutest handbag from Coach that’s been on style repeat all season is the finishing touch.
the smoking slippers are dark brown and white, so don’t be surprised if you order them.
denim | turtleneck | duster cardigan | smoking slippers | handbag
denim | turtleneck | duster cardigan | smoking slippers | handbag
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I love black and white together and I was just wondering what I would wear today, as I headed to the shower. Thanks Beth.
classics never fail!
Sade ve klasik tarzınızı seviyorum.
Muğla Türkiye’den sevgiler 🤗🌺🌼
thanks so much!
Talbots has some beautiful boucle mules (B&W) that would go great with your ensemble! Enjoyed your post.
i’ll have to check them out! thanks for sharing.
It would be helpful if you tell the size of the pieces you are wearing. The outfit is lovely.
thanks for the feedback. there is a FAQ section on the blog where i share my sizes. here’s a link:
https://www.styleatacertainage.com/about-beth-djalali
Wow! Smashing. A-b-s-o-l-u-t-e-l-y smashing. Today have learned I must hunt down a black cardigan duster. This OOTD just made its way to the top of my list! You look so very good. The post is sure to be one of my most favorites. I love black/white dressing because it compliments my silver-gray hair, too! Thanks for such inspiration, Beth! 🧡
you won’t be disappointed adding a black duster to your wardrobe! thanks for stopping by.
Beth,
I appreciate your reminder that it’s totally fine to wear white jeans in the fall and winter. My friends and I have ongoing conversations about this — and I think most women of our generation still struggle with the idea of wearing white pants and/or jeans after Labor Day. I have a few pairs of cream and white pants in “winter weight” fabric, but sometimes I still hesitate to wear them. But I love the combo of a black turtleneck or tunic with white or cream jeans. Thank you!
thanks, cindy! always good to hear from you.
Love this combo . . . . changing now! But where’s your belt? I always look forward to seeing your belts.
sometimes i like a more casual vibe. adding a belt elevates an outfit even if a smidge.
As always, beautiful outfit Beth.
My favorite,
I do the same I love black and white outfit
I very classic
It never goes out of style
A beautifully sophisticated outfit, Beth!
Just love your posts and everything about your style.
I don’t like to wear black near my face, but you give us ideas that we can easily incorporate with in another color.
Beautiful classic outfit, you look stunning as always! Would love to see pictures of your finished projects around your lovely home!!
will do!