Black and white looks are red-hot this spring

Black and white is a classic combination, of course, but if you work it right this season, it can also be the newest red-hot look! The white shirt, the black skinny jean, a touch of patent leather ... read along and we'll show you five of the trendiest, quickest, and easiest ways to update your wardrobe with the power of black and white. It’s all right here in this edition of The Trend Report!

Stripe hype
Whether you're a committed prepster or a trendista hot on the trail of the latest looks, you'll love this twist on black and white. The bold stripe is the big story for spring and summer. The secret? Simple: Dress up classic preppy looks with the punch of a boldly striped top. Pair your striped tank, tee, or polo with khaki or (even newer) white tailored shorts, capris, or a knee-length skirt. Then add a touch of luxe — a gold belt, a great gold bangle, cuff bracelet, or even a pair of gold-toned aviator sunglasses. This will give you instant chic — and the kind of style that works for all ages.

Trend tip: If you want to get really trendy, go for the gleam of a gold metallic handbag with your preppy look. A tote, an oversized satchel, or a clutch all work wonders.

Intermix

Get the skinny
You've seen skinny jeans on everyone from Sienna Miller to Angelina Jolie. One way to update your spring-into-summer wardrobe is to get the skinny yourself! The biggest trend in denim is the super slim “cigarette” jean, which is worn tucked into boots, and worn with either ballerina flats or sandals in warmer weather. The skinniest jeans measure a mere 10 inches around the ankle, although 12-inch and 14-inch legs are also acceptably slim. The look is minimalistic and severe (and so trendy in black denim) with little to no embellishment. Skinny jeans are not for everyone, but if you can carry the look off, jump in!

Trend tip: Some of the hippest brands right now include J Brand, Sass & Bide and Imitation Denim.

The Gap

Flower power
Floral prints abound this season, and one of the most sophisticated ways to indulge in this feminine trend is with a chic black-and-white combination — the bigger and the more dramatic the print, the better. You'll get lots of bang for your buck. This wardrobe addition is easy to wear and accessorize (unlike many of the season's prints in a riot of colors). An alternate "flower power" choice might be a cardigan, a dress, or a skirt in solid black, or in white embellished with contrasting embroidery.

Trend tip: Bold prints work best on clothing with simple, clean lines — steer clear of fussy pleats or complicated shapes.

Vince at Neiman Marcus

Shirting the issue
We've said it before and we'll say it again: one of the pieces you'll get the most wear out of this spring and summer is a great white shirt embellished with a bit of lace or other romantic trim. For summer, we're also starting to see more casual "shirt" shapes like easy tunics, which are equally fabulous. And if your style is casual, a tunic may be a more comfortable way for you to grab this trend. Delicate pleats on the front or bib of the shirt, drawstring tie cuffs, or insets of lace or eyelet will make your shirt look new for the season. This is one case where the "boho" peasant look is oh-so 2006.

Trend tip: Did you know that a spritz of hairspray will remove ink stains from your beautiful white shirt? It's true!

Stuart Weitzman

Spectator sport
One of the most fashion forward trends of the season is the re-emergence of patent leather, especially in the "spectator" combination of black and white. We love the look of patent leather accessories in the newest shapes — the wide belt, a slim clutch handbag, or a pair of super high heels (or conversely, a completely flat skimmer or ballerina shoe). Pick the right shape, and you can make a spectator sport of pairing your patent leather accessory with just about everything you own.

Trend tip: There's nothing worse than really cheap-looking patent leather. If you want to go for this trend, prepare to spend just a bit more to get the quality you need.

Judy Gordon is a New York-based style consultant and the “Today” show’s style editor. She has been covering the fashion and beauty beat for the past decade. To learn more about Gordon, you can visit her Web site, TheTrendReport.com, which highlights style trends in America and across the world.

firstVIEW is the primary supplier of photos to Fashion Friday. Go to www.firstVIEW.com for the latest pictures from top fashion shows around the world, including New York, Los Angeles, London, Paris, Milan, Brazil, New Zealand, South Korea and more.

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