Opposites Attract
It might be a consequence of having to pile on the layers because it's winter, but lately I'm in the mood to dress really simply, in a basic white dress with opaque black tights. There's something mod about that combination, but it's still modern enough not to be costumey. I've got plenty of stockings—my favorites by far are Lauren by Ralph Lauren, because they're inexpensive, completely dark, and last forever—but the trick is finding white dresses. The gauzy white ones in my closet are just too summery to pull off now, but I just spotted a gorgeous crepe dress by Alexander Wang that I think might be ideal for year-round wear. The twisted banding at the shoulders and grosgrain trim at the waist give it a subtle dose of embellishment, though the look is still as clean, cool, and crisp as can be.
I'm having the same tendancy. I'm choosing a lot of monochromatic pieces and spiking it up with the jewelry or the shoes. I'm still trying to find a place to wear my plaid-and-patent brown peep toes. Gotta invent an occasion. ;))