All In The Family

Whether it’s wearing an outfit featuring colours of a single palette or dressing in one hue from top to bottom, here’s how you can ace the monochrome game in seven different ways

While playing with variations in hues and shades within a colour is one way of avoiding looking like a skittle, another good idea would be to break the monotony with a complementary colour as this not only enhances the main hue, but also gives relief to the eye!

Wear it to: “A fancy picnic, or a lunch with your BFFS,” suggests celebrity stylist Rishi Raj.

Accessorise it with: “A scarf or a sheer, long cape jacket if it’s a day event and for a night do, add some bling in the form of big earrings or a bangle stack,” he says.

Avoid: “A scarf if your neck is short,” cautions Rishi.

A cool way to enhance a monochromatic look is by adding layers and accessories like a jacket and a cap in complementary shades. Plus, wear silhouettes that show your skin in the right places to add spark to a single-hued outfit.

Wear it to: “Shopping during the day with friends. This look works well for a night market visit while travelling, too,” says Rishi Raj.

Accessorise it with: “A pair of flats or sneakers,” he suggests and adds that one can make it more contemporary boho by adding on a soft bandana drape or a casual, slouchy jacket.

Avoid: “If you are voluptuous, as this look works best for a boyish body by creating depth through the assymetrical details and drapes, which does not flatter a curvier body,” he cautions.

The monotony of a monotone look can be broken by adding an element of fun. To do so, pair a piece in either a different fabric or set, and throw in a matching bag and belt.

Wear it to: “Shopping with your girlfriends or boyfriends, or for any day activity,” says Rishi Raj. Accessorise it with: “Stack up a couple of bracelets in different colours or a colour blocking kind of scarf as a headband or a vibrant handbag or a clutch,” says designer Falguni Peacock.

Avoid: “Wearing it to work or in the evenings as it is a soft, girlie look,” says Rishi.

This playful look where a dress is styled with a check shirt is the perfect example for those looking to style varied separates to put together a monochromatic look. While there’s no need to be afraid to add more and more layers, do know where to stop!

Wear it to: “This can be worn to a jam session with friends or even to an informal brunch,” shares desigher Rahul Mishra. “Replacing the sneakers with a pair of heels can completely change the mood of the outfit,” he adds.

Accessorise it with: “A good pair of graphic earrings. Something that can be juxtaposed with the checks and bring more attention to the face,” recommends Rahul.

Avoid: “If you have broader shoulders, as the checks may give an illusion of more volume,” he cautions. “And visible socks can be avoided in this look, too, as one wouldn’t want to have more elements than needed,” he adds. brunchletters@hindustantimes.com Follow @Htbrunch on Twitter and Instagram