Monochromatic Midge

Who says monochromatic has to be boring? As true with an all-white or all-beige room, there's a "right way" and a "wrong way" to bring it all together; the right way being a multi-layered approach, up-playing texture, pattern and varient in hue. Same applies here– introducing different textures: cotton, silk, leather and brass, can build a casual chic ensamble totally appropriate for a Monday!

The Breakdown:

Top: Banana Republic Lightweight Tie-front Tunic in White, $34.99
Earrings: Etsy seller 'Bookity' Sherlock Holmes Drop Earrings, $24.50
Scarf: LOFT Snakeskin Printed Scarf in Antique Grey, $34.50
Pants: Zara Leggings in Marengo, $35.90
Shoes: Nine West Clara Boot in Dark Brown Leather, $199.00

Total Cost of this Outfit: $328.89
Just under $350 is a tad steep for something as casual as this look, in my opinion. 

Here's how you can save on this look:

• Opt out of the Etsy earring purchase and incorporate your own brass or metal earring.
• Save $100 off a boot purchase by shopping at more cost-effective stores such as Bakers, ALDO, DSW, etc. Those stores often have a nice selection of featured leather boots under $100.

You can easily bring the cost of this outfit down to ~$200 by following the aforementioned advice. Also, consider this: A pair of neutral leggings and a brown leather boot are two items sure to be in your closet for a long time– don't be afraid to spend the extra dollar to ensure they're quality items.

Another consideration: If you just can't bring yourself to swing a monochromatic look, I can't blame you– I'm a sucker for color too! Try swapping out the snakeskin scarf for this pop-of-orange: LOFT Ikat Diamond Print Scarf, $34.50.