Clothes Call: How to build a black and white wardrobe

Dressing for the seasons has certainly kept our weekly wardrobes colorful–from the reds, greens and shimmery metallics during Christmas-time to the soft pinks and bright crimson we donned around Valentine’s Day. But while we love a rainbow of colors when we look in our closets, there’s something that always feels fresh, and stylish, when it comes to a black and white palette.

Before we get color-coated by all that lucky green come March and an array of pastels this spring, let’s go back to basics with some classic black and white combos.

Rotate these five looks throughout the week for easy-to-pull-together outfits that will have you looking ultra-chic all year long.

Work it

Scandal fans will be glad to know that a new Olivia Pope-inspired collection has hit The Limited. Consider your work wardrobe handled. An off-white and black trimmed blouse, will lend a new look to your business suit, while the Olivia wide leg trouser pants, $98, The Limited, look like they came straight from the show’s set. For a wild card pairing this spring, try adding white trousers and a black overcoat. Blouse, $59.95, The Limited

Put a bow on it

Get gussied up in this dress for a date to the theater, a nice dinner or any other kind of special event you have circled on your calendar. The pencil dress, made by Byron Lars, is an Anthropologie-exclusive and features gorgeous lace and appliqued flower detailing. We love the sweet bow on the waist that adds charm. Carissima sheath dress, $258, Anthropologie

Flower power

For an elegant and unexpected twist on florals this spring, opt for dark, moody colors. Mix matching separates–like this jacquard top and skirt–and then remix the separates throughout spring and summer with more colorful separates in your wardrobe or with black and white basics. Sister Jane New Bloom sleeveless top, $85, and pleated skirt, $89, Nordstrom

Wear your stripes

We love the idea of having an easy, go-to outfit combo that’s ready to come to the rescue on those “I don’t have anything to wear days.” For a simple casual Friday or weekend look, pair a black and white striped top with white or black jeans. Pull in color with a solid scarf or mix in a pattern with these smoking flats, $24.94, Old Navy, that come in a sweet floral print. Striped top, $17 on  sale, Old Navy

Scarf this down

The easiest way to add interest to an outfit? Pop in a great accessory. This windowpane-printed black and white scarf is an instant outfit maker. Pair it with a black top and black pant combo or loop it around your go-to white Oxford shirt. Hannah scarf, $69.50, bananarepublic.om