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The Allure of Black and White

Chanel. Oscar de la Renta. Gucci. Giorgio Armani. DKNY. The world’s premier fashion houses are featuring black-and-white color palettes in their Pre-Fall 2014 collections. At once timeless and cutting-edge, black-and-white designs can vary widely in mood and effect, inspiring designers anew every season.

HIgh End Black and White Fashion Trends 2014

The very characteristics that make black-and-white fashions so show-stopping on the runway can have the same effect in the home. Jayme Kennerknecht, NCIDQ, IIDA of LDa Architecture & Interiors explains: As “black is characterized by the absence of light and white is the reflection of all color without absorption, these tonal opposites often work well together to create a dynamic space.” When paired, these hues produce a crisp, polished look that exudes elegance.

Architecture by LDa Architecture & Interiors

(Architecture by LDa Architecture & Interiors, Photography by Sam Gray)

Capello Design

As in fashion, black-and-white design palettes in the home can elicit quite different effects, depending on the ratio of the two tones. For example, Ralph Lauren’s black-and-white couture has a romantic silhouette, as does Armani, who features draped elements that whisper femininity. Translated to the home, an “open, airy and tranquil” look can be achieved, says Kennerknecht, by making white “the more dominant color.” 

High End Black and White Fashion Trends 2014

Carter & Company

LDa Architecture & Interiors

(Interior Design by LDa Architecture & Interiors; Photography by Sam Gray)

Using white extravagantly can also come off as pristine and dazzling. You might say that EcoModern Design’s contemporary spaces pictured here share the aesthetic of DKNY’s new collection—all have a definitively mod vibe that is high on shape and contrast.

DKNY Spring 2014 Black and White Trend

Eco Modern Design

Speaking of shape, Helmut Lang and Stephane Rolland are showing eveningwear that borders on the sculptural. In one’s home, Eileen Marcuvitz of Plum Interiors offers: “the simple use of black and white is the best way to showcase sculptural pieces of furniture.” 

Plum Interiors

Prestigious home furnishing mecca Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams carries items that more than fit the bill. 

Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams

(L: Fleming Leather Chair / R: Too Sexy Sadie – Available at Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams)

Mitchell Gold Bob Williams

And then there is the Versace effect. It comes as no surprise that this renowned designer is currently showing studded leather styles and ensembles that interplay leather and fabric. Within an interior, that combination takes on a decidedly urban sensibility.  

Versace black and white trends

Interior Design by LDa Architecture & Interiors; Sam Gray Photography

(Interior Design by LDa Architecture & Interiors; Photography by Sam Gray)

Aside from glamour, there are other benefits to incorporating a black-and-white color scheme in the home. Tanya Capello of Capello Design maintains, “playing off contrasts in light and dark fabrics and furnishings can give a room a lot of depth.” Case in point? The powder room below by Wilson Kelsey Design, a small space that’s big on dimension, thanks to the lauded firm’s handpicked furnishings.

Wilson Kelsey Design

Another tip? Kennerknecht suggests matching white walls and trim to “create a gallery effect” and help a room feel “more expansive.” This stars the furnishings within the room, making them the focal point. 

Roche Bobois

(Image/Roche Bobois)

She also offers that black furnishings “pop” when offset by “polished, crystal or shiny chrome details and hardware,” while Amy Dumas, showroom manager and interior designer at Roche Bobois, Natick, recommends adding bursts of color to heighten the drama. So don’t be afraid of accessorizing. This is high fashion, after all. 

 

Written by Sandy Giardi

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