You’ve probably put on a monochromatic outfit before and chances are that it was all-black. Black may be the easiest color to mix and match, but how can you get the same chic and sophisticated effect by wearing a bolder color from head to toe?

The idea can be a bit intimidating. Colors mean something and going with a monochromatic look is a definite style statement. Some might say it only requires confidence to pull it off, but we think that some tips and tricks may be handy too. 

Let’s start with the color. It’s always best to wear a monochromatic outfit of a color that suits your eyes, hair color, and skin tone.

Got that? Perfect! Now let’s work some magic.

  1. Use different shades 

Monochromatic doesn’t mean that you’re not allowed to match different shades of the same color. So, add dimension and depth by playing with brighter and darker shades.

  1. Experiment with color temperature

We’re not talking about the usual distinction between warm and cool colors here. Even a ‘cool’ color can come in warm tones, and vice-versa. Cotton candy, for example, is a cool pink, but coral is warm.
You can use only cool tones or warm tones of the same hue or mix and match different color temperatures to create a specific look. 

  1. Add textures

When you’re restricted to one color, texture is what can add contrast and make your look more interesting. Combine different fabrics together, like denim and chiffon, leather and cotton, suede and silk, wool, and...sequins?! Why not!
And don’t forget your shoes. They play a crucial role in adding variety through texture. 

  1. Build up layers

Layers are another way to add dimension and depth to your monochromatic style. So, use jackets, scarfs, hats and other accessories deliberately to pull your outfit together. 

  1. Break it up

When the one-color look is just too much, break it up with a print or a pattern. Just make sure that the main color is still the one you’ve selected for your monochromatic outfit.
You can also use a belt or another accessory of a totally different color to interrupt the monotony of the monochrome.

  1. Strike a balance

That’s a rule for every outfit, but it’s even more important when you’re wearing only one color from head to toe. You want to wear the color, not to disappear in it. 

  1. Accentuate the right areas

Wearing different shades of the same color is a great way to highlight your best features and hide the ones you don’t particularly like. The secret is to always use darker shades to deemphasize and brighter or lighter shades to draw attention.


Now that you have a couple of strategies and ideas, you can play around with any color you want and assemble the trendiest monochromatic outfits. The beauty of this look is that you can easily recreate it with garments that you already own.
OpenWardrobe can help you store all your clothes in one place, so the match and match process will be smooth at each time.