Target Who What Wear Black and White Dress

A black and white outfit is the universal answer to every dressing dilemma. Feeling underdressed? Swap your look for something in solid black and feel instantly confident. Unclear dress code? All those fashion magazines you read in high school were right, a little black dress really is your safest bet. Want to feel polished at a picnic? Throw on an ensemble of entirely white pieces and try not to spill.

There's something incredibly stylish about streamlining your outfit options with black and white pieces. Silhouettes have the chance to shine, for one. And the outfits carry a timelessness, giving you a green light for investing in pieces that will last for many a dressing dilemma to come. Keep reading for tips on how to wear black and white.

01 of 10

All Black Everything

Some formulas are too good to mess with. Exhibit A: an all-black outfit. Need proof, look to the Olsens. Some of their best outfits are just incredibly well-cut black pieces paired together.

Re/Done 70s Stovepipe Distressed Jeans $169.00

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Cuyana Mini Double Loop Bag $195.00

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Nanushka

Nanushka Petra Top $375.00

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02 of 10

White Dress and Black Chunky Sandal

When it comes to juxtaposition, black and white is an obvious choice. Take the contrast one step further by mixing a white, feminine dress with heavy, black fisherman sandals.

Minimallegacy Handmade Women Fisherman Sandals $175.00

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Sister Jane Script Embellished Oversized Dress $196.00

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Le Specs Unreal! Sunglasses $79.00

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03 of 10

White on White

Opting for a monochromatic look is a simple way to feel polished in a snap. Bonus points for all white, which reads as super cool, no matter the season. Keep things interesting by focusing on contrasting textures.

Crap Eyewear The Bikini Vision Sunglasses $99.00

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The Summer House Pavlova Pant $78.00

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Studio Bllanc Ashley Shirt $280.00

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04 of 10

Matching Set

What's cooler than monochromatic? A matching set in matching tones. Try trading in a sweater on top for chilly nights or jeans on the bottom for a more casual look. Otherwise, embrace the summer's favorite trend, proving suit sets reign outside of the office, too.

Quince Organic Linen Short Sleeve Shirt $35.00

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Quince Organic Linen Shorts $30.00

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05 of 10

Overall Effect

While colorful overalls can easily read as young, a striped pair plus a ribbed black bodysuit reads a little more mature. It offers maximum comfort on those days when separates are just too much to manage.

Parallel Apparel Essential Rib Bodysuit $62.00

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End. Carhartt WIP Trade Overall $175.00

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Superga Shiny Gum Sneaker $85.00

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06 of 10

Lingerie Inspired

One perk of keeping an entire outfit black is that it gives any trend a feeling of timelessness. It's a trick to keep the latest trends from feeling fleeting. Embrace nighttime dressing during the day in a sleek ensemble of all black.

Brinker & Eliza Vera Hoops $128.00

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Lilysilk Lace Trim Silk Camisole $65.00

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Khaite Mitch Denim Bermuda Shorts $320.00

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07 of 10

Blazer and a White Tee

Long gone are the days where sporting a blazer meant a formal business meeting was in order. Try the classic piece of outerwear for your next dinner. Pairing it with an easy white tee keeps it feeling casual.

Skagen Denmark Riis Three-Hand Black Leather Watch $125.00

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The Frankie Shop Bea Blazer $345.00

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Hanes Women's Nano T Shirt $7.00

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08 of 10

Black and White Florals

Florals feel dressed up in black and white. Paired with this darling cardigan, you're set for whatever last-minute event summer throws at you—from a backyard wedding to a late-night walk on the beach.

Faithfull the Brand Canyon Midi Dress Fiorella Floral Print $199.00

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Alex Mill Nico Chunky Cardigan $125.00

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09 of 10

The New Little Black Dress

Yes, everything you read in fashion magazines about the LBD is still true. It's still the secret to looking sophisticated in one step. Bring a modern interpretation to life with a cotton puff-sleeve iteration paired with a sleek gold bracelet.

Ganni Cotton Poplin Dress $295.00

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Mango Heel Leather Sandal $70.00

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26 Juin Bijoux Leon Bracelet $82.00

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10 of 10

Break the Rules

This relaxed color block dress proves there's nothing quite as bearable as the timeless (lack of) color combination. This look feels like a proper jack-of-all-trades with a silhouette inspired by Jackie Kennedy.