Owning every piece of clothing in one color might seem easy, but you shouldn’t underestimate the art of uniformity. Monochrome is more than black and white—it’s using multiple shades of a single hue. By Kyle Cavazos

Photos by Dahlia Dandashi

When creating a monochrome look, wearing a variety of textures can be essential for adding dimension to the outfit — an entire cotton getup never made anyone look twice. Combining monochrome with other trends can achieve an individualized representation of you. Here are some monochromatic looks to provide you with inspiration.

1. Green

Identical green pieces run the risk of emulating a frog or tree, but darker bottoms help distinguish your two halves. Add a forest green army jacket and you’ll be a certified sergeant in streetwear.

2. Burgundy

The velvet dress and wool coat with knee-high socks give monochrome the bold creativity it deserves. Balancing a breezy dress with a heavier coat is one way to avoid having a singularly toned outfit blend together.

3. Gray

Grunge and gray go hand in hand. The distressed bottoms, acid wash shirt and snakeskin slip-ons, with a denim jacket around the waist, scream bold. The uniform color allows the mixture of prints to unite distinctive pieces in a way that’s not overpowering.

4. White

Yes, white on white on white can (and should) be done. The gold necklace gives this fresh and clean look a touch of flair.

5. Blue

Including hints of black or white in your one-color outfit is a subtle way to break up the uniformity, while staying true to monochrome. A knitted shawl cardigan gives the pants and Mao collar shirt a smart and casual look.

5. Black

An all-black look can easily run together and look like a strange one-piece. The leather shorts and polka dot tights combine two fun pieces and break up the serious tone of a black ensemble.