It's Black. It's White.

H&M's super gorge, super graphic Spring 2013 Campaign - photo H&M

Originally posted in The CLOSET

I remember it well.  Toronto Fashion Week, Fall 2012 (my powers of recollection are staggering) and the editors, bloggers and remaining fashion flock were rocking their finery in front of the wind-blown tents at David Pecaut Square.  Girls in neon short shorts, sky high heels and super bold frocks and of course, the too-cool-for-school editrixes in their bright coats, flat brogues and crazy expensive shades.  As always, it was a rainbow of notice-me hues as the peacocks (myself included I'll admit) tried to get captured by the street style paps. 

Then out she walked.  A blonde, bobbed 20-something.  Stark black and white striped pants, a black sweater and red lips.  Simple, cool, in a throw-back Mary Quant meets Taylor Tomasi Hill kinda way.  And while the bloggers all backflipped their way around the windy square,  she simply stood there and waited.  And the mesmerized photographers all circled the girl, lured to her like moths to a super fierce flame. 

As much as I love colour, black & white can be equally striking.  Whether you opt for graphic stripes, checks, polka-dots or fearlessly wear them all together, nothing looks more modern, more right, right now.

Check out some of my fave black & white finds in stores now - a perfecly seasonless way to get a jump on spring (no backflips required) x

Studded Barrel Bag, $50, ALDO

Stripe Chiffon Shirt, $29.90, Garage

Statement Ring, $6.95, H&M

Slim-Fit Printed Trousers, $24.95, H&M

Python Print Sneakers, $29.95, H&M

Ponte Knit Stripe Dress, $79.95, Le Château

Faux Leather Tote, $49.95, H&M

Graphic Striped Top, $14.95, H&M

Printed Trousers, $49.95, H&M

Legacy Leather Tanner Tote, $498, Coach

Striped Knit Moto Jacket, $69.95, Gap

Leather Crossbody Bag, $69, Danier

Houndstooth Pointy Toe Pump, $39.99, Le Château

Printed Chiffon Blouse, $24.99, Smart Set

NIXON The Rubber Player Watch, $199.99, Boathouse

Printed Scarf, $14.95, H&M

Zipper Tote Quilted Box, $398, Roots

Renee Top, $79.50, Club Monaco