If there is one thing that has invaded almost every part of contemporary style, it would be color. Brighter and brighter hues have been find ing their way into masculine styles in recent years. This is by no means a bad thing— variety is useful and exciting.

However, as colors become more commonly used, non-colors seem to be falling out of favor, especially mono chromatic outfits comprised entirely of black, white or gray. This is one trend that should be reversed, since a distinct lack of color can give an outfit some much-needed character.

Just think: what are the most classic and timeless articles of clothing that still exist in our society? It would probably have to be the full suit or tuxedo. These two are most commonly seen in black with a white shirt in formal a setting.

It is this association to the tuxedo or full suit that you can leverage in your every day outfits to give a sense of class and formality, even in the most casual of settings. Even a normally rebellious or punkish style is given a refined feeling by this classic combination.

A monochromatic color scheme is simply visually striking. Black and white is the highest contrast color combination possible. It draws your attention to it while not being overbearing or overly bright.

Black and white simply work together. Neither draws your attention more than the other, unlike many colors that are becoming popular. Again, there is nothing wrong with bright colors, so long as they are balanced well with the rest of the outfit.

This ease of use is the main advantage of a monochro matic color scheme. It allows greater variation in pattern and texture, while still main taining the same quiet confi dence. When more colors are added, more has to be taken into consideration to ensure that no two aspects conflict in an unattractive way.

Black and white colors are the cornerstone of a good wardrobe, and every man should know how to com bine them into a success ful outfit. There are certain pieces of clothing that, while in no way are mandatory or exhaustive, make for a good starting point.

First out of all of these things should be black leath er. Leather jackets, belts, shoes and boots serve to add texture to an otherwise woven ensemble. A good leather jacket and boots can add some attitude to balance the refined air that the mono chromatic scheme brings to the table.

White shirts of whatever variety you wear most often are a necessity, even if you don’t plan to wear mono chrome. Whether this is a button down, a polo or the simple t-shirt with or without a graphic, the shirt will typi cally be the largest concentra tion of white on your body.

The pants or jeans in the monochromatic color scheme are usually black. This bal ances out the white from the shirt and creates an even, pleasing distribution. Of course, the adventurous can always opt for white pants.

Another classic piece of men’s fashion that plays per fectly into the black and white trend is the canvas sneaker. Black canvas sneakers seem always to have been popular, and their white counterparts are gaining in popularity re cently. Either choice makes for a good foundation to a black and white outfit.

Monochrome always has and always will be a staple of style. It is quiet, unassuming, understated and beautiful. It does not demand attention but gets it all the same.