On The Move in Style: Life in Black and White

BY LILI MUNTEAN

October 10, 2023

While life in black and white isn’t always perceived as a positive thing, today, we’re going to explore the aspects that make it a unique and enriching experience.

Metaphorically living life in black and white offers several distinctive and positive qualities. Let’s delve into some of them.

Artistic Expression – a topic dear to my heart, is where we’ll start. Numerous iconic black and white photographs and works of art showcase profound artistic creativity. For instance, black and white photography has the capacity to evoke powerful emotions and raw authenticity.

Consider Richard Avedon’s Dovima with Elephants, wearing Evening Dress by Dior at Cirque d’Hiver in Paris, August 1955 is the perfect example of black and white artistic expression.

Emphasis on Contrast – The charm of black and white lies in its emphasis on contrast, which accentuates the beauty of opposition and teaches us to appreciate life’s subtle nuances. While black can convey somberness, it also exudes timelessness. When combined with white, it assumes the role of an enduring classic that never goes out of style. These two shades can be worn together or separately, offering timeless elegance appreciated across eras.

Universal Appeal – Black and white possess a universal appeal that transcends cultural and language barriers, fostering relatability among people worldwide. This combination embodies simplicity and clarity by eliminating unnecessary distractions and allowing us to focus on life’s essentials. This, in turn, encourages an unbiased perspective, allowing us to view things objectively, free from the influence of color.

Below photos capture a momentous day, expertly lensed by the talented Nilan Muntean. For this occasion, I decided to remain faithful to my personal style while infusing it with a touch of playful sophistication. It’s a representation of my youthful, carefree self. I chose a black denim dress from Alexander Wang as the centerpiece, complemented by white compression socks. Completing the ensemble are a pair of classic checkered Vans and my latest prized possession: Aupen’s Nyx handbag, a product of their collaboration with Vogue Singapore. This latter choice is not only a fashion statement but also a step toward endorsing a more sustainable future in the fashion industry.

Nostalgia and Nostalgic Value – Last but not least, the black and white duo invokes nostalgia and nostalgic value, connecting us to the past and reminding us of life’s enduring and timeless elements. It’s important to remember that life in black and white doesn’t diminish the vibrancy of colors. We should cherish the unique beauty and perspectives that it brings to our daily lives and personal experiences, all while still appreciating the vivid palette of the world.

This year once again we find ourselves navigating challenging times, and the Spring 2024 Season runways have elegantly echoed this sentiment. Designers have embraced a refreshing sense of authenticity and simplicity. Black and white themes have pervaded the runways, providing a timeless and reliable choice for those who appreciate this classic combination. The focus has shifted towards storytelling, with designers expressing their narratives in a subtle yet impactful manner.

Take, for example, Miu Miu’s message, highlighting the enduring struggles women face worldwide. Sacai’s mantra, “The more simple we are, the more complete we become,” resonates with a minimalist approach to fashion. Stella McCartney, ever mindful of sustainable practices, curated a collection that champions “conscious materials” while exploring her parents’ stylistic influences.

Balenciaga’s inspiration springs from deeply personal sources, with a spotlight on the individuals who hold significance in Demna’s life. Valentino’s message revolves around preserving women’s freedom to express themselves and their bodies without constraint. Sarah Burton’s homage to Alexander McQueen is a touching farewell, honoring the late Lee Alexander McQueen’s unwavering commitment to empowering women and celebrating the passion, talent, and loyalty of her team.

What are some of your favorite ways to style black and white ensembles and how do you guys feel about the abundance of black flooding the runways this 2024 Spring Season? Would love to hear all about it below!