Black & Tan

The Palette That Travels Well in Style

There are certain color combinations that just do it for me, and black and tan is one of them — especially in the summer months. The depth of black elevates the casualness of tan, while tan takes the edge off black, softening it into something more relaxed. Together, they create a palette that transcends trends, feeling both polished and natural. Whether worn casually or dressed up for evening, black and tan remains a classic combination — one that’s been worn for decades by fashion icons around the world. It’s also a favorite among luxury fashion houses, as it exudes true sophistication. I think of this palette as one that moves with ease from city to city, always looking modern, cosmopolitan, and confident.

Here’s a look at how I see black and tan shape-shift for me — how I wear this combo at home in Los Angeles and while traveling. Both are essential neutrals to pack, as they pair effortlessly with other colors. Proof that this is a match that’s here to stay. I imagine you already have black and tan in your closet, but if you're looking for an update, I’ve linked a few fresh options below.

I love a good skirt, and this tan wrap skirt is the kind you can wear seamlessly from day to night (this one is very cool too - and on sale, also love this one). Paired with a black button-down shirt, ankle wrap flat sandals and a top handle stripe raffia clutch, it’s feminine without being overtly so, and completely office-appropriate. Gold jewelry is my favorite with this color combo. I love both of these gold plated rings - the intertwined one and the black onyx one, and I’m also into this charm necklace.

If you prefer pants, then here’s a version of this look that is very similar but different! These khaki pants are elevated by a off-the-shoulder wrap top, and caged sandals. I love this Gucci bag, but for those who prefer to go logo-free, this one, and this one are beautiful alternatives. I would wear all this jewelry at once, but if you’re wary of too much bling, then this curved bracelet makes a strong solo statement - and it also comes in silver. Finally I’d add this straw hat to the looks - mostly because I need to keep my face out of the sun as much as possible.

Here are two other looks I’d wear in this color combo. The one to the left feels very NYC to me - probably because I walk all over the city, and a cool, comfortable and stylish pair of sneaker is a must when I’m there. They need to take me from morning into the evening, and these Nike would absolutely to it for me. I love a crisp poplin button down and keep a good stock of them in various colors in my closet. This tan one (here is another good one), paired with a simple black high-waisted cropped pant is an easy fit. The accessories are what elevate the look and keep it from being basic: a baseball cap for the sun, a cool cord belt with a gold loop that adds instant chic, and the two-tone tote bag that says we know exactly what we’re doing, style-wise. The jewelry here - small gold-plated hoops, (also love these huggies,) and a simple open-cuff, is minimal but elegant and it works beautifully with the second look (or pretty much anything else).

While I picture this second look worn in Tuscany, the truth is it works just about anywhere - from the office to the weekend, from breakfast, lunch and dinner to a party. This dress is an investment, but if the budget allows, I highly recommend it. The fit is incredibly flattering, and this is the kind of you never tire of. If not, here is another good option, as well as this one, and this one. The dress does most of the work here, but it gets good support from a few trusted essentials: a cotton crewneck cardigan (or a featherweight cashmere one), a clutch with a hint of gold hardware (also love this one), a black straw hat, and a very chic criss-cross flat sandal. A little kitten heel sandal, like this one or this one would be lovely too.

Have fun in your closet - and thanks for reading, and sharing this post!

XxLaurence