I'm always here for a statement-making trend to break up the monotony of day-to-day outfits. Yes, I love my wardrobe basics like jeans and t-shirts, neutral colors, and minimalist pieces. But at the same time, I like to keep my eyes peeled for pieces that create impact, but without a whole lot of effort. Enter the two-toned trend. It's a look that bubbled up during New York Fashion Week for the Spring 2020 collections and has since started to permeate my Instagram feed by way of street style photos and #OOTD snaps.
A riff on colorblocking, but slightly more minimal, the two-toned trend takes shape via contrasting coats and dresses, remixed blazers and knits, and variegated accessories from boots to handbags. Ranging from neutral color combos to print-and-texture mélanges and graphic black and white, there are so many ways to wear this trend, whether you're here for a head-to-toe look such as a coat-and-boot pairing, jumpsuit, or long dress or prefer a subtle accent like a sweater, bag, or mule. It's the kind of trend that breathes freshness into any wardrobe in an instant without being all that tricky to pull off. The pieces pretty much do the work for you and are especially easy to wear when styled alongside simpler items.
After witnessing a handful of two-toned outfits during Copenhagen Fashion Week in January, it's my prediction that the trend will continue on as a prominent look during New York Fashion Week and only gain momentum throughout the Spring and Summer seasons.
If I've piqued your interest, continue on to check out my edit of two-toned pieces from clothing to accessories. Plus, I've rounded up some of my favorite outfits to serve as inspiration, whether you are planning to go all out with a top-to-toe look or want to dabble with a single two-toned piece.
Two-toned pants are one of the bolder ways to wear this trend, whether you're into a mix of fabrics and prints, colors, or denim washes. To keep this look easy, stick to a solid color on top and sleek accessories.
A monochrome outfit like Danielle Bernstein's is an easy way to make two-toned pants feel fresh but unfussy.
Peter Do Two-Tone Leather-Cady Pants ($1,495)
María Bernad makes a strong case for two-toned pants in a mix of fabrics.
16Arlington Fonda Two-Tone Leather Bootcut Pants ($368, originally $735)
If two-toned clothing feels intense, a contrasting handbag is an easier foray into the look. Neutral tones are, of course, the most versatile with a range of pieces in your closet.
A two-toned pattern makes a bolder statement, as does a unique shape.
For a feminine take on the two-toned trend, we love the look of a midi dress or skirt. From side-by-side color pairings to solids with contrasting trims, this is the perfect way to wear the trend at work or for sophisticated occasions.
Rosetta Getty Two-Tone Cotton-Jersey Turtleneck Midi Dress ($348, originally $695)
A belted or self-tie silhouette is a flattering way to add dimension to a two-toned dress.
Muted tones make a two-toned look feel elevated, easy, and chic.
COS Smocked Cotton Dress ($135)
For a statement-making shoe moment, two-toned boots feel achingly fresh with everything from minidresses to jeans.
Burberry Two-Tone Stiletto Boots ($506, originally $920)
A two-toned shoe is a perfect pop with a neutral outfit, even if they're neutral, too.
Bevza Two-Tone Faille Pumps ($330)
For a graphic finish to any outfit, opt for two-toned shoes in black and white.
Nasty Gal Double Take Two-Tone Boot ($36, originally $72)
We love a good statement coat, so naturally, we're here for a two-toned version. If you're daring, you can style one as a dress, too!
ASOS Design Color Block Coat ($103)
Bouguessa Two Tone Long Coat ($1,345)
Like with dresses, a belted two-toned coat looks super dynamic.
Johnny Hates Jazz Two-Tone Tailored Coat ($529, originally $739)
Mango Contrast Flaps Trench ($230)
J.ing Mixer Brown Trench Coat ($261, originally $348)
If you are a jeans person or love a simple pant, a two-toned blazer or shirt is an easy way to liven them up!
When styling a two-toned shirt or jacket, keep the rest of your look easy with basics like a t-shirt and jeans.
Monse Two Tone Pinstripe Asymmetrical Blazer ($895, originally $1,790)
For a cozier take on the two-toned trend, look no further than combo sweaters.
Nothing freshens up a classic cardigan like the two-toned trend.
A black-and-white color pairing look super chic, whether you style it with neutrals or brighter colors.
Marni Two-Tone Cardigan ($1,058)