With my relatively low contrast and fair natural colouring, I have to be careful about high contrast; theoretically, at least, it can overpower me. And yet -- it doesn't, or not always. Which leads me to believe that personality and body type play a role, as well as colouring.
Admittedly, black and white in a large-ish pattern near my face is too much for me. No question. I disappear and the pattern rules. But that's not the only way to wear high contrast.
As a matter of fact, both high and low contrast outfits can make me happy, depending on mood.
High contrast works best on me in the form of stripes (navy or ink and white, especially) or in garments that are "tipped" or "framed." These, not coincidentally, are two of my favourite patterns. High contrast can look also good in other patterns also but usually in my most preferred colours. And -- like black -- it is better on me in summer. Is this because my skin gets a bit of sun -- or because I am higher energy in summer? I don't know. Regardless, summer or winter, the scale of the pattern has to be "just so." Contrast can also work well in colourblocking, especially in accessories.
Lower contrast looks especially rich colourblocked. I love a monochromatic or tone-on-tone look in mid-tones (closest to my natural colouring). I love white-out (lighter than my natural colouring). And I love navy or ink blue from head to toe, although I usually lighten up at least a bit there, with some denim or similar, or with silver accessories.
Contrast for drama, excitement. Lower contrast for harmony or a sense of calm. That's on me. On a fair skinned, dark haired woman, high contrast = harmony.
