Master Fall’s Monochrome Trend: Hawai‘i Designer Matt Bruening Offers His Tips
Mastering the monochrome trend is a snap thanks to these handy styling tips from local designer Matt Bruening, whose latest collections are chock-full of black-and-white glamour.
Photo: courtesy brooke dombroski
Hometown:
Mākaha
Lines:
MB by Matt Bruening: Contemporary, upgraded basics that blend clean lines with modern shapes. Salt Liko: Collab with Kūha‘o Zane and Brandy-Alia Serikaku. Resort wear featuring custom, Hawaiian-inspired prints.
Key Pieces:
Jumpsuits, boxy tees, tapered pants
Select MB by Matt Bruening pieces are available at fighting eel, royal hawaiian center, 738-9295 and bamboo sky, 401 Kamake‘e St. #104, 591-8003.
Select salt liko pieces are available at genius outfitters, 346 lewers st., 922-2822.
model photos: david croxford, model: allie chu, makeup: kecia littman, hair: bevin malina
1. MB Cloud reversible top, $79, Salt Liko Holei skirt, $105.
Tips
➸ An interesting cut, such as a batwing sleeve or a curved crop, can take a plain, solid top from simple to amazing.
➸ Play with volume—the bubble silhouette of this high-waist skirt creates dynamic shapes with movement.
2. Gabby jumper, $200, custom piece available by special order.
Tips
➸ In black and white, mixing prints gets easier thanks to the shared color palette, so really go for it as far as contrast.
➸ When pairing prints, let the clothing be the focus and stick to dainty or minimal accessories—too many extras can make the outfit feel busy.
➸ Classic stripes can act as a neutral and work well with other repeating patterns—just be sure to choose ones that are similar in scale.
3. MB Klein jumper, $188, Niko kimono jacket, custom piece available by special order.
Tip
➸ When opting for solid black, look for pieces with fun, unexpected details. For instance, this jumper features a drop waist, pleating, tapered leg and slim, sexy straps that crisscross at the back.
