If you enjoy wearing black and white patterns, you might like the visual effect of wearing a couple of them together in one outfit. The outfits here showcase the combination of a bold black and white pattern with a more subtle one. Gingham with a high contrast stripe, and a chevron stripe with a pinstripe. This is one way to remix two-toned patterns.

Ralph Lauren

Lauren Woman Houndstooth Cotton-Blend Twill Blazer

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Ralph Lauren

Lauren Woman Striped Linen-Blend Wide-Leg Pant

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Of course, you can remix two bold patterns, or two quiet black and white patterns instead. The white component can be off-white, cream or tan, and not optical white. The black component can be navy. Here are more examples.

1. Stripes and Stripes

This trendy classic look remixes an on trend pair of almost puddle length wide leg off-white and black pinstriped pants. It’s paired with a sweater in a bolder black and white stripe. The lot is topped with a short black moto jacket. Black sandals and bag complete the look. I’d have preferred to see shoes with covered toes like pumps, booties, oxfords, mules, or loafers, although sandals work too.

2. Stripes and Floral

This rendition remixes two patterns in the same black and cream palette. One is a stripe and the other a floral. The striped sweater is tucked into the floral flared skirt. A black complement of belt and heeled sandals complete the look. Throw in a black or cream bag.

3. Dots, Abstract and Bits of Blue

In this version, a black and white polka dot tunic is worn over a pair of solid black leggings. A scarf in a black, white and BLUE pattern tops the look and creates a fab pattern mixed effect. The subtle, yet effective addition of a bit of blue adds another interesting detail. If you like to wear blue, adding it breaks up the expanse of black and white. Blue jeans instead of black leggings will pick up the blue, and work well too. Black sandals match the black in the outfit and bookend the model’s hair. Add a bag that matches the palette, or throw in a mismatched colour to rock the boat.

4. Dots and Loose Geometric

The last outfit combines a pair of lantern pants in a tan and black loose geometric pattern with an OLIVE and black knitted V-neck top. The top’s tailored silhouette tempers the volume of the bottoms. The black component of the top matches the black component of the bottoms, which allows the eye to rest and pulls the look together. Black cage heeled sandals add a dressy and summery touch. A black or tan bag would work well. Add jewellery, watch, and eyewear as desired.

Sustainability is a complex subject. There are no easy solutions and there are many compromises. Reflect on what sustainable and ethical fashion means for you and your style. The problems won’t go away unless we all act. 

Purchase from sustainable brands. Purchase items with longevity. Take care of clothing so it lasts. Repair, recycle, and upcycle. Shop your wardrobe instead of the store. Rent, swap, donate and resell. Recycle to prevent items going to the landfill.

Sustainability means different things for different people, and some can manage it more easily than others. It’s not a contest, so compare, but do not despair. If you’re making a point of being sustainable your way, you will be part of the solution.

You are on Team Spring if you prefer dressing for Spring rather than Summer, and vice versa. Spring temperatures are cooler, which you might prefer, or not.

Spring is by far my favourite time to shop. I love the colours, all the whites, the weights and textures of the clothing, the vibrant and happy patterns, the crispness of the fabrics, the footwear that is neither sandal nor boot. And that silhouettes are reasonably covered before stores are full of skimpier clothing for hot Summer weather.

Spring weather in Seattle is all over the place. It can be cold, wet, damp, grey and windy. Snow is not out of the question. It can also be mild, sunny, absolutely gorgeous, and even as hot as a Summer’s day. When we have what I call proper Spring weather in Seattle — warm, mild, dry and sunny — it can’t be beat. I love dressing for that weather. It’s perfect for white jeans, light layers, and closed shoes. My faves.

That said, I also love wearing my Summer dresses, cotton and linen pant co-ords, pretty Summer tops, and gladiators or ankle strap flats. The carefree and relaxed vibe of Summer dressing that does not require layers is close to my heart too.

I can’t decide, and I’ll be on the bench. I’m serving a tasty Spring meal today too. Celery and leak brown rice and quinoa, with honey and ginger carrots, and salmon that’s steamed in the oven with coarse salt and herbs. Easter chocolate for dessert.

Over to you. Do you bat for Team Spring or Team Summer? Tell us why, and no batting for both teams. If you can’t pick a side, feel free to join me on the bench.

If you’ve ever slipped into an outfit that feels just right, you know the magic of clothes. And when it comes to outfits that make us feel invincible, there’s nothing quite like channeling the spirit of Wonder Woman. Let’s dive into why donning an outfit inspired by the iconic Amazonian warrior can transform not just your look, but your entire outlook. 

The Magic of Enclothed Cognition

Imagine the boost you get from wearing your favorite power outfit. That’s enclothed cognition at work. It’s the idea that our clothes impact our psychological state, influencing how we think, feel, and perform. Picture this: stepping into a pair of sleek, confidence-boosting boots or a blazer that makes you feel like you can conquer the boardroom. That’s the kind of positive transformation we’re talking about.

A Style Icon for Empowerment

Wonder Woman is more than a superhero; she’s a symbol of strength, grace, and justice. Her iconic costume isn’t just for battling villains; it represents her commitment to fight for those who cannot fight for themselves. When you wear an outfit inspired by Wonder Woman, you’re not just putting on a costume; you’re embracing a set of values. You’re telling the world — and reminding yourself — that you’re strong, capable, and ready to stand up for what’s right.

Elevate Your Day

Dressing in a way that nods to Wonder Woman’s elegance and strength can do wonders for your self-esteem. It’s about more than looking fabulous (though that’s certainly part of it!). It’s about feeling connected to the qualities that make Wonder Woman a beacon of empowerment. Whether it’s a pair of bold, red boots, a gold accessory that echoes her lasso of truth, or a blazer that channels her armor, each element brings a touch of her spirit into your daily life.

A Superhero-Inspired Wardrobe

What’s truly magical about embracing this style is the shift in your mindset. You start to see challenges as opportunities to shine and approach tasks with a can-do attitude. It’s as if the outfit lends you a bit of Wonder Woman’s courage and resilience. And in a world that often feels like it’s filled with obstacles, who couldn’t use a bit of that superhero spark?

Making It Work for You

Incorporating Wonder Woman-inspired elements into your wardrobe doesn’t mean you need to step out in a full costume (unless you want to, of course). It’s about capturing the essence of her strength and grace in a way that feels authentic to you. It could be as simple as a statement piece of jewelry that serves as your personal “lasso of truth,” or a color choice that makes you feel bold and empowered. The key is to find pieces that resonate with you and incorporate them into your look in a way that boosts your confidence and joy.

Wonder Jo

For a great example of superhero power in action, look no further than our own Wonder Jo. She’s especially knowledgeable about uniform dressing, minimal wardrobe capsules, and wearing statement brights. She’s a fan of repeating outfits, and having a small and practical footwear collection that goes the distance. As a speedy super hero, comfort is key for Wonder Jo. Her accessory style is therefore small and meaningful, so she has a large assortment of colourful collars, rather than a lasso and wrist guards.

Just like Wonder Jo, you have all the strength, beauty, and grace you need to conquer whatever comes your way. So go ahead, embrace your inner superhero. The world is waiting.