HABITS many moons | Page 15

2 If you're up for splashing out on an investment piece, why not try something in Diane Von Furstenberg's signature zebra print? The designer showed a lot of black and white this season, but her famous zebra stripes never looked fresher than they do on the stunning "tattoo print" Fanny dress. Having said that, you'd have to look twice to tell the difference between DVF's dress and this stunning Karen Millen frock, in monochrome croc (at a fraction of the price). For sharp two-tone, check out Saint Laurent's Chrissie Hynde tribute (very 80s: asymmetric stripes, leather leggings and glittery socks – black, white and silver work beautifully together). Alternatively, be inspired by the modern, minimal silhouettes at Victoria Beckham and Jil Sander. Here, monochrome was clean without being austere. Beautiful tailoring and soft touches (such as a white cocoon coat with opera-length sleeves over a white shirt at VB) are the key to doing smart monochrome. Finally, a word on footwear. Black and white shoes are an easy update and look surprisingly fresh with jeans. There are innumerable styles to choose from (pointed flats are this summer's brogues), but my pick would be these Whistles flats, which show that leopard print can be cool and casual – especially in black and white. Or try these Louboutin heels, which confirm that leopard is still sexy, even when you change its spots.