Queen of Simplicity

 

Some of the best things in life come in black and white – old movies, desaturated photographs, newspapers, pandas, and cookies & cream ice cream immediately come to mind. Likewise, black and white outfits are among our favorite things… especially for fall.

Like most girls, we have a serious love for neutrals. Most of the go-to pieces in our closets are white or black… and we bet yours are, too! So why not wear them together for a classically chic look?

If you’re concerned about looking drab when you go back to basics, never fear. Below I’ll show you how to look super stylish in black and white, with four achromatic outfits:

Animal Print Weekend

One of the most dramatic ways to pair black and white is, of course, with a bold animal print. A zebra print tunic sweater is a great choice to keep your lazy leggings-and-boots outfit looking fresh. Also, we love beanie hats in these chilly months for bad hair days – we haven’t seen them as much as usual this season, so rock one today and stand out from the crowd.

 

Trendy for a Night Out

The most exciting way to jazz up your black and white look is to go super, super trendy with it. A peplum top, fake leather leggings, and platform shoes (okay, these are more blush-toned than grey.. but how cute are they?) are all popular. If the entire look was in color, it would be difficult to pull off. However, sticking with all black allows you to rock fun trends like peplum and shiny pants without looking over-the-top.

Pile on the Layers for Class

Layers are a great way to add dimension to your black-and-white outfit. Wear tights under shorts (since it’s cold anyways – you need them!), and layer a vest on top of your sweater. If it’s really cold out, add a jacket, too!

Playing with Textures at Work

Another way to add excitement to an outfit with no color is to play with texture. Suede flats with a faux-croc skirt and a houndstooth coat? Fine by us! Also, you don’t have to colorblock to wear these shades – a cool shirt, like this blouse from Target, puts bold touches of black on an otherwise normal blouse.. and the effect couldn’t be cooler.

 

If you have any more ideas, suggestions, bitchy outlashes at me, anything at all or maybe even for no reason at all, do comment, or write to me at obsessiveclothingdesire@gmail.com

I will be back home in less than a month! Can’t fucking wait!

5 must haves for this fall 2012

1. Loafers: 

Give your fave ballet flats a rest this fall and pick up a pair of these must-have alternatives — smoking slippers. These menswear-inspired loafers are not only uber-comfortable, but can be worn with pretty much everything in your closet. And since they’re available in every color and print imaginable, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a pair that doesn’t match your personal style.

 

2. Studded Collars:

Amp up your style cred by rocking a statement-making studded, sequined or beaded collar this season. A statement collared blouse or dress creates a glam, yet feminine vibe, but if you’re looking for something more versatile, try a detached collar. Just as the name suggests, these collars can be worn with anything and will breathe new life into your favorite sweaters, tees and dresses.

3. Anything in Oxblood:

As I’m sure you know, all things oxblood are hot for fall, so be sure to pick up at least one new item in this hot hue. This moody shade looks fantastic when paired with black or gray, but if  you’re looking for something bolder, try pairing oxblood with orange or light pink to create a fashion-forward look.

4. Graphic Sweaters:

Make a bold and comfy statement this season with an on-trend graphic sweater. Pairing these sweaters withjeans and boots creates a cozy fall outfit, but I especially love how they look when layered over a collared top or dress (see #4).

5. Printed Pants:

Last but not least, my final favorite item to update your look for fall is a fantastic pair of printed trousers. Whether you like leopard, polka dot or floral prints, you’re sure to find your perfect pair at almost any retailer. Wearing these trousers with a solid-colored top creates a chic look, but for a bolder outfit, pair them with a printed top or jacket to create a fashion-forward vibe.

Must-haves this fall/winter 2011

With winter just around the corner, you need to refurnish your wardrobe. To make that easier for you, OCD picks out the must haves for this winter. They just have to make their way through your wardrobe. Let’s start with the list:

1. Statement necklaces- These statement necklaces are the perfect way to dress up a basic tee or to add some edge to your favorite LBD. Sound like your kind of jewelry? Here are some of our favorites:

 

Knee length socks- These tall stockings will totally transform your favorite summer dresses, shorts, skirts and rompers into fall. They’ll also give you some extra coverage and keep your legs safe from the eyes of lecherous men. We think these socks look chic with flats, oxfords and heels, but we especially love the way over-the-knee socks look when paired with tall boots.

 

3. An over-large cozy sweater- Since it is getting a little dry outside and our winters go upto at least 20* (which I know isn’t that much) but having an over-large sweater is always good. Wear it off-shoulder and pair them up with leggings or pencil jeans. Strut the the stuff in slippers, ballets, pumps or boots, the sweaters will yet look good.