Guide To A Monochrome Wardrobe

The best part about a monochrome wardrobe is that you really can’t go wrong. Trying to match colours in an outfit can be a hard task, but by keeping things simple, quick and easy outfit decisions are at your fingertips every day. There’s a reason monochrome style pieces have stood the test of time. Black, white and grey are tried and true classics that have outlasted countless fashion trends because of their versatility and ability to be easily styled together. These three colours are so versatile that it’s completely possible to create a varied, interesting wardrobe for every occasion life throws at you. We’ve selected some of our favourite monochrome pieces across a range of categories…

Tops

Having a great selection of shirts will make it really convenient to put together looks. In summer, your t-shirt is half your outfit so you want it to be fresh and simple, giving you a few options to pair it with depending on the occasion. For the office, a crisp white button up shirt can be implemented into your week with a suit or jeans seamlessly, giving you a put-together look.

Basic T-Shirt

The plain white tee is a staple that is high on our list of essentials for a monochrome wardrobe. It works as well at Sunday brunch as it does under a blazer at a wedding.

Pictured: Jac + Jack – Crew Neck T-Shirt

Jac+Jack‘s take on the classic is crafted from soft cotton jersey and has a regular cut which is flattering for most body types.

Oxford Shirt

A white oxford is just as versatile as a white t-shirt, able to be dressed up with pants and leather shoes, or made more casual with jeans and sneakers. Every man should have one in his wardrobe because it’s a piece you can count on when you’re not sure of the dress code. It will never look out of place at an interview, birthday party or even a date.

Pictured: Mr P. – Oxford Shirt

This option from Mr P. comes in a sharp, regular cut with chest pocket, made from 100% cotton.

Sweatshirt

Sweatshirts are ideal for transitional weather, when it’s not too hot and not too cold. They’re easy to throw on over a shirt or tee as needed, and by keeping to a monochrome palette it means they will work with everything else you’re wearing.

Pictured: Asket – Sweatshirt

Designed in Stockholm, Asket have taken the classic American football sweatshirt and given it a minimalist twist. Unbrushed Egyptian cotton ensures supreme comfort, while the tailored fit says farewell to baggy jumper silhouettes.

Bottoms

When it comes to pants, jeans and shorts, you only need a few key pieces to base your wardrobe around. Mix things up with different materials like linen, wool and denim for outfits that are simple but have textural interest.

Pants

Pants with a clean, classic fit are a great option any day of the week. Switch out your button up shirt for a t-shirt and you’re ready to go from the office to dinner.

Pictured: Saturdays NYC – Gordy Pants

These lightweight pants from Saturdays NYC are made from a linen twill blend so they’re comfortable enough to wear through the warmer months too.

Shorts

Shorts are key to a comfortable summer. Essential in keeping cool on hot days, go for a dark pair that’s easy to match with the rest of your summer wardrobe.

Pictured: AS Colour – Plain Shorts

This black pair from AS Colour have been carefully crafted in stretch cotton drill for a soft, relaxed feel. The dark charcoal colour works well with both black and white tops and sneakers.

Jeans

A pair of jeans is one of the most versatile pieces in a monochrome wardrobe. They’ll serve you well when you’re racing out the door and need a quick, simple outfit.

Pictured: Assembly Label – Decade Jeans

These pre-washed denim jeans from Assembly Label are a simple yet effective wardrobe addition. Not only are they comfortable with a bit of stretch, but the aged black wash is a nice way to add a different texture to your look.

Outerwear

Having a selection of lightweight jackets and warmer coats to choose from will see you through the year in style. Jackets in lighter materials are versatile and can be added easily over the top of a shirt. A thicker coat will help to keep you warm and is a nice addition to a suit or your work clothes.

Casual Jacket

The right jacket can elevate a monochrome outfit simply by adding another layer of texture. There are heaps of options available, from denim right through to linen.

Pictured: Levi’s – Trucker Jacket

This jacket from Levi’s is cut from pure cotton denim with a classic button down design that will transcend the seasons.

Weatherproof Jacket

A waterproof jacket is an essential to keep in your wardrobe for times when you have to brave the dark, gloomy winter weather.

Pictured: needESSENTIALS – Hard Shell Jacket 

This three-layer jacket from needESSENTIALS is built for extreme environments and weather conditions, and even comes with a helmet-compatible hood. The Hard Shell Jacket regulates air temperature inside so you can continue any activity without overheating.

Coat

More formal than most jackets, and with the versatility of being able to be thrown over a suit, a coat is a nice addition to your wardrobe for cooler months and occasional cold snaps.

Pictured: Sunspel – Mac

This mac coat from Sunspel will serve you for years to come, with its classic charcoal colour and comfortable wool blend.

Blazer

A blazer is a piece that you can throw on over almost anything to create a look that is put together and classy. Pair it with matching pants for a more formal look.

Pictured: Hope – Atome Blazer

This unstructured blazer is a great casual alternative to a suit. It features rounded pocket patches, a narrow collar and lapel and is crafted from a wool blend twill.

Accessories

Once you’ve got your shirts, pants and outerwear sorted, it’s time to think about accessories to amplify your look. Whether it’s a hat, a watch, or something as basic as socks, accessories can help pull an outfit together.

Hat

A simple hat is an essential for the summer months and any day your hair isn’t playing fair. Not only does it protect your face and hide unruly hair, it adds a finishing element to your outfit.

Pictured: paa – Palisades Cap

This classic baseball cap has a casual fit with an unstructured crown. The adjustable snapback means you can always get the perfect fit.

Socks

Premium socks are something that no man should overlook in his monochrome wardrobe. After all, they’re a daily necessity and have the power to make your day a little bit more comfortable.

Pictured: Organic Basics – Cotton Socks

These mid-rise socks from Organic Basics are made from combed organic cotton and have reinforced stress zones in the toe and heel, so they’ll last you ages.

Watch

A beautiful watch can elevate your look in an instant. Every man should own at least one watch for a way to tell the time and to add some style to your wrist.

Pictured: Instrmnt – K-100 

This black-on-black option boasts a vegan rubber strap and black casing combined with high-quality swiss parts.

Shoes

Keeping your shoe selections simple with a monochrome scheme will allow you to mix and match other clothing pieces easily. Start with a pair of fresh sneakers, a dress shoe and something for the gym to cover all bases.

Sneakers

Having a pair of quality sneakers with a clean, minimalist aesthetic gives you heaps of options when it comes to putting looks together. Jeans, suit pants or shorts will all compliment your sneakers. 

Pictured: Oliver Cabell – Low 1 

These black low top sneakers from Oliver Cabell maintain a minimalist aesthetic but also stand out with their two-tone black and white detail.  They’re hand stitched in Spain using Italian calfskin leather so you know you’re buying a premium pair that will quickly become a staple in your monochrome wardrobe.

Formal Shoes

When it’s time to pull out the formalwear, shoes play a big part in whether you look dapper or whether you miss the mark. Clean lines and quality leather are the way to go.

Pictured: Royal Republiq – Cast Derby

Derby shoes are ideal for many occasions because of their neat look. Easily dressed up with suit pants or dressed down with chinos, a pair of derby shoes will be a saviour for those times when the dress code is somewhere in between. This black leather pair feature flat waxed shoelaces and a classic silhouette for a smart look.

Running Shoes

Before working out you need to ensure you have the proper gear to support your body rather than cause damage. Wearing something that isn’t made for the movement you’re doing can lead to injury which puts you off your game. Choose wisely and you can incorporate them into your looks outside of the gym too. 

Pictured: Adidas – Alphabounce Beyond

These running shoes by Adidas are specifically made for cross-training with a snug, sock-like fit with a forged mesh upper that supports movement from side-to-side. They’re even nice enough that you’ll want to wear them on weekends too.

Feature image – The Sweatshirt from Asket. 

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