Black And White Is Hot This Summer
So you want to look hot this summer, but bright colors aren't your thing? Maybe you should jump on the latest fashion trend: black and white outfits.
Mandi Norwood, editor in chief of Shop Etc. magazine, offered a mix of affordable examples and pricier ones on The Early Show's Chic on a Shoestring Wednesday.
The series features two versions for each look: one a splurge, the other a steal. It can be awfully tough to guess the difference.
LOOK #1: THE WRAP DRESS LOOK
High total: $582
Diane von Furstenburg dress, $275. The Diane von Furstenburg wrap dress has been an icon since the '70s, and it's still hot today. The oversized polka-dot print is woven into the luxe fabric, which clings to your curves in all the right places. Darts at the bust and waistline ensure a tailored and flattering fit.
Stuart Weitzman shoes, $265. Shoes are made of patent Italian leather. The straps are lined with soft leather that won't dig into your skin. The platform cork heel is a major trend for summer.
Banana Republic necklace, $42
Low total: $161.80
Zara Dress, $79. The pattern is screen printed onto lighter weight fabric. The cotton is stiffer and doesn't stretch as easily.
Aldo Shoes, $79. We love these great-looking peep toes. They are made of a lower-grade patent leather that doesn't mold to the foot as easily as a more expensive version will. The soles are also plastic, not leather.
Forever 21 Necklace, $3.80
LOOK #2: THE NAUTICAL PANT LOOK
High total: $1,043
Lauren by Ralph Lauren sweater, $90. It's made from 100 percent air-spun cotton, offering a lightweight yet substantial knit for summer. The threads are hollow, so you get the volume without the weight.
Ralph Lauren Black Label pants, $398. These are 100 percent double-face cotton, which is luxe, soft and means you don't need a liner. Side buttons are shell.
Lulu Guinness clutch, $225. It's made of resin-covered canvas and patent leather. There's a chain strap if you want to wear it over the shoulder.
Aldo gold wedges, $90. All leather.
Gucci white rimmed sunglasses - $240
Low total: $180.98
H&M sweater, $24.99. The 100 percent cotton lightweight fine gage knit is a little sheer, so you may have to wear something underneath.
Necessary Objects sailor pants, $58. These pants are unlined and made of a cotton and spandex blend. The metal buttons are actually hollow and don't button — they're just a detail.
Limited clutch, $38. It's made of cotton canvas.
Michael Antonio shoes, $40. PVC plastic wedge heel and straps.
Isaac Mizrahi for Target white rimmed sunglasses, $19.99
LOOK #3: THE FENDI-INSPIRED SKIRT LOOK
High total: $702.95
Marc by Marc Jacobs blouse, $218. It's 100 percent cotton with lace trim, and the pintuck details have feminine flair. It also has insignia buttons.
Moschino Cheap & Chic skirt, $315. This imported Italian cotton skirt has silk grosgrain trim and darts at the hip that tailor the fabric to your curves. The skirt is also lined.
Betsey Johnson belt, $40. Patent leather is thicker and stiffer and makes a more defined waist. The big buckle makes a big statement.
Steven by Steve Madden pumps, $129.95. Wooden heel, leather upper.
Low total: $105.78
H&M blouse, $24.99. This 100 percent cotton blouse has machine embroidery and a boxy shape. It is unlined, so it's a little sheer. The buttons are plastic.
H&M skirt, $29.99. This skirt has a wide waistband and is a cotton/spandex blend. It's also unlined.
Forever 21 patent belt, $10.80. It's a lower-quality patent leather — you can tell because it is a little bit flimsier.
Michael Antonio pumps, $40. Made of cracked leather, which is less expensive, and has faux wooden sole. They're actually plastic.