Zara Cropped White Blazer

An all-black or any monotone silhouette is easily a signature look. But if you want to amp up essential color palettes, try black and white, the eternally chic combination.

Ann Taylor Faux Leather Belted Midi Skirt

The pairing of black and white is one of the hallmarks of Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel’s signature style. Perhaps it was the influence of the Catholic nuns at a grim orphanage in an obscure French village. By now, we all know that Coco’s mother died at the age of 12. The father absconded while she and her two sisters grew up in the former monastery.

Coco Chanel Inspiration


There are many direct inspirations from Gabriel’s childhood at the orphanage. Here’s one: Coco and the orphans wore white blouses and black skirts. The nun’s attire is white wimples and black skirts.

A Windy Day in Central Pennsylvania at the Capital Complex; Classic Chanel Look, Black and White

Or was it the black-and-white nouveau style from Art Deco during the roaring twenties? It was probably the most popular color scheme during the 1920s and 1930s.

Classic Chanel Outfit

The classic Chanel color motif is still reigning supreme one hundred years later. It’s accessible and always relevant.

Always Relevant Color Choices, Black and White
Location: Harrisburg State Capital Complex. 

How often do you wear this color combination? Do you treat black and white as wardrobe staples? Please do tell.

As always, thank you for visiting The Age of Grace; I appreciate you. Please remember the three Ws regarding the COVID-19 surge: wear a mask, watch your distance, and wash your hands.

Eugenia, Age of Grace