When it comes to fashion an essential part in styling is often in the colors we choose to wear.   Most of us have our own personal preferences in colors based on the way we think they complement our skin tones, hair colors, moods etc.  I personally love working with a multitude of colors when styling my outfits. However pairing multiple colors together can be a tricky thing for some. But don’t worry there are tons of helpful styling guides and tips on what colors complement each other well.  No matter your preference, skin tone, hair color or mood there is one color combination that will always remain classic yet still very modern and that is black and white. Black and white is a true blue example of opposites attracting and creating a perfectly contrasted combination. With both colors being on the opposite of the “color spectrum”  they are the original color blocking combo/ duo. No matter how casual or glamorous the outfit  these two colors work extremely well together creating such clean, chic  and polished looks. That’s why my outfit for today is this simple yet sophisticated black and white casual number.

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So my look today is all about simplicity and layering. I started off with this cute black and white H&M dress I wore as my top. The thicker knitted cotton fabric in this dress makes it a great option for cooler fall days.  I loved the eye catching graphic black and white pattern all over this piece. This is a great piece to style in various ways. The intricate designs along with the simplicity of black and white make it a perfect candidate for adding some nice pops of color as well.

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I layered my dress/ top with this long black and white Ruby Moon cardigan.  I absolutely love this piece!! Again I love the simplicity of the black and white along with all the multitude of prints along it. I loved the thick solid black along the lapel, around the edges and bottom of the sleeves as well as the deep pockets on the side. I thought this piece worked absolutely great when paired with my printed dress underneath. I love mixing and matching prints and I thought all the prints went strikingly well together.

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I decided to wear this chunky belt around my waist to pull everything together. I loved the figure eight like design in the front with the floating braided loops. I thought it worked great and added even more depth to my simple two-toned look.

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I paired my outfit with a plain  pair of light blue jeans. I wanted the maze of all the black and white patterns/ prints to do all the talking while keeping my bottom simple and casual.

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I chose to wear these leather ankle boots by Maripe’. I love the simplicity of this boot with the subtle stitched design and the pointed toe. I thought they went great with my look.

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Sticking to my two-tone theme I chose this simple black satin-like clutch as my handbag. I loved the sleek and basic design in this clutch which complemented my outfit perfectly.

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Last but not least, I chose a black jersey hijab along with a pair of clear and black beaded chandelier earrings to complete my overall look. 

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Well that’s it for today you guys!!  Colors are great and should be explored at all costs when creating your ensembles. However,  never underestimate the power in simplicity and impact of black and white!! Until next time…don’t forget to stay and slay on a budget!! *Waves*

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What I Wore:

H&M dress: $6 @Goodwill
Ruby Moon Cardigan: $4 @PAT
Jeans: 25 cents @PAT Outlet
Belt: $2  @Value Village
Maripe’ leather boots: $4 @PAT
Clutch: $1 @PAT