Black and white monochrome looks are one of the few real trends in women's fashion. Monochrome is one of the simplest, most chic of looks to work whatever the year. Monochrome never fails to gain attention when done well.

Monochrome is easy for creating a fairly effortless travel wardrobe, and it can be given the lift of the moment with a bright accessory taken straight from the latest colour trend chart. If colour blocking with paintbox colours is not for you, then go monochrome.

Think neutral. Think black with white. Think of alternating all black or all white garments with the opposite contrasting accessories. Accessories can be the key to getting this look so easily.

This fashion look is always smart, crisp and frequently fun as designers come up with new ways of reworking the yin and yang of black and white.Fashion Accessory Trend 2009 - Ivory 'High Gladiator Boots' are from Jonathan Kelsey at Harvey Nichols

The monochrome look also lends itself to the nautical clothes trend which designers celebrate every year. Whilst nautical clothes are also a true trend for the modern woman, the underlying trend is the simplicity of monochrome. This dark against light, black with white monochrome fashion look is classic, and the perfect choice right now for anyone with a financially critical wardrobe budget.

Monochrome is capsule dressing and will stretch that tight budget. Long after coloured garments have faded into last season's oblivion you will still be able to wear monochrome classics that stand the test of time.