Inspiration Board: Michelle - Black, Black, Black

 I love me some color as much as anybody, but certain days simply require chic, iconic black. If you're feeling Dark Mode coming on, look no further than Michelle for a bit of inspiration. This recent look is about as lightless as it gets: a black monochrome pairing of a cropped top, distressed denim and OTKs with a bomber on top. Black makes life easy and this look is mad simple to re-create. The one important rule with a monochrome outfit is to include some textural variation(s) to enhance the visual interest.  If you're using a satin bomber (or any fabric with a sheen), do things Michelle's way and go for a knit top. Swap her OTKs for fierce ankle or mid-calf boots (hardware encouraged) to make the styling a little lighter for summer. If your bomber is a knit or similar matte finish, opt for an alternative texture underneath, like a 90's-tinged silk cami that plays on the lingerie-for-day trend. It has the added benefit of more coverage than the crop top if you're in an environment where ab-displays are frowned upon or your abs are feeling shy ;). The luxurious sheen of silk offers a tantalizing contrast to a soft knit, smooth twill, or fuzzy wool.  Go with straight or skinny denim on the bottom, distressing optional. Contrast the femme cami and play up the bomber's sporty vibe by finishing the look with sneakers. Alternatively, take this combo in a more polished direction with a drapey button-down blouse. Any variant of silk will do: crepe de chine, charmeuse, georgette, or any fabric with a similar look. Go with high-waisted denim and blouson it or leave it un-tucked and flowing (bonus: the rise on your denim matters not).  Pointy pumps enhance the easy sophistication, while the on-trend bomber creates an off-duty model vibe. Enhance that with a sleek-but-simple pony. And if you suddenly feel the need for a chain-handled cross-body or a quilted tote, I'm with your feels. Happy styling!