ComScore

The Case for Wearing Only One Color

Monochromatic outfits are quick, easy and super slimming

What’s the hardest part of getting dressed every morning? Matching one piece to another, right? 

Enter the monochromatic outfit--a foolproof way for looking instantly put together. These are the best colors for tonal looks.

Black

Total no-brainer. As easy as it is chic, the all-black outfit should be a staple in your wardrobe (even in the summer).

Get the look: Gap tee ($25); Topshop pants ($38)

monochromatic gray

Gray

Spice up a pantsuit with a coordinating graphic tee that indulges your inner nerd. Or opt for a plain tee that still adds that element of softness.

Get the look: Ted Baker pants ($157) and jacket ($255)

monochromatic navy

Peekaboo bra optional. Otherwise, treat navy just as you would black or gray and mix structured pieces with feminine layers.

Get the look: J.Crew pants ($98) and jacket ($198)

monochromatic white1
Street Peeper

White

Perfect in the summer (but gaining in popularity for the winter), white on white sends an especially polished message.

Get the look: Banana Republic top ($70); Sea skirt ($225)

monochromatic blush
We Wore What

Blush

Admittedly, this a tougher color to find coordinating separates. However, a jumpsuit plus flats and a panama hat? Worth the shopping trip.

Get the look: Ramy Brook jumpsuit ($425); Cuyana hat ($65)

monochromatic cobalt

Cobalt

As you can see, monochromatic outfits are easiest with neutral colors. But Sandra Bullock proves bold colors don’t have to be off-limits. Just proceed with caution (i.e., maybe steer clear of yellow).

Get the look: Emporio Armani pants ($186); Sam Edelman top ($80)


stief author

Wellness Director

  • Oversees wellness content
  • PureWow's resident book reviewer
  • Has worked in lifestyle media for 11 years

fashion
/ Abby Hepworth
The 10 Best Jackets at REI, According to an Outdoorsy Fashion Editor
fashion
/ Destinee Scott
Meghan Markle Adores This California-Cool Brand (and Minimalists, So Will You)
fashion
/ Natalie LaBarbera
I Tested Rothy's Comfy Boat Shoes That Totally Nail the Fisherman Aesthetic Trend
fashion
/ Stephanie Meraz
Millennials Will Be Thrilled to Know This Color Is Trending for Spring
fashion
/ PureWow Editors
The Kate Spade New York x Target Collection Is Coming Soon—Here's Your Sneak Peek
fashion
/ Stephanie Meraz
6 Shoe Trends That’ll be Huge This Summer, Including Onitsuka Tigers
fashion
/ Delia Curtis
Mikey Madison Carried This Trendy Hobo Bag Ahead of Her ‘SNL’ Appearance—and It’s Still in Stock
fashion
/ Stephanie Meraz
The Ultimate Guide to Reformation Jeans—Tested & Reviewed, with Photos
fashion
/ Stephanie Meraz
Reformation Abby vs. Cynthia Jeans: I Put Both to the Test & Here Are My Results
fashion
/ Natalie LaBarbera
A Stranger Stopped Me on the Street to Ask About These Clogs—and They're Not Birkenstocks
fashion
/ Destinee Scott
T.J. Maxx's Huge Selection of Beaded Handbags Has TikTok in a Tizzy—and You Can Snag These Under-$50 Styles Online
fashion
/ Rachel Bowie
From the Subway to the Highline, Everyone in NYC Is Wearing This Spring Trend
fashion
/ Dana Dickey
The 6 Best Lululemon Men’s Shorts: Tested & Reviewed With Pics
fashion
/ Delia Curtis
Psst: You Can Shop Reese Witherspoon's Exact Birthday Shirtdress
fashion
/ Natalie LaBarbera
Eterneva's 'Living Diamonds' Are Truly One of a Kind—and PureWow Readers Can Get an Exclusive Discount
fashion
/ Stephanie Meraz
17 Pieces from the lululemon Spring Collection to Shop RN
See More