Black & White, as a theme, is dramatic and timeless; an apt representation of all that is elegant and chic. It has been used in décor and fashion to create a dramatic, timeless effect for decades. It has also become very popular in wedding décor in recent years, and continues to be used by brides- [...]

Black & White, as a theme, is dramatic and timeless; an apt representation of all that is elegant and chic. It has been used in décor and fashion to create a dramatic, timeless effect for decades. It has also become very popular in wedding décor in recent years, and continues to be used by brides- and grooms-to-be as well as by professional wedding planners and decorators. The Black & White theme is usually especially easy to put into practice because of its being a colour scheme as well. This means that the vast majority of design elements are able to be translated into black and / or white with ease. This combination creates a bold, striking feel, with equal focus on the masculine (black) and the feminine (white).

The Black & White theme translates well into a checked pattern, dramatic swirls and intricate floral designs with whimsical tendrils, making it extremely flexible.

Attire and Accessories
The long-established Westernised bridal attire is already characterised by a white dress for her and a black suit for him. This works perfectly within this theme if you are a couple that prefers to maintain tradition. To add a little pizzazz to your theme, use gorgeous accessories (such as a black sequinned fascinator, black-beaded jewellery, lace or black feathers in the bouquet for her; or a white waistcoat and tie under a black suit for him).

Alternatively, swop the traditional colours for a completely novel look. This means that the groom will don a pristine white suit and the bride will appear in a striking, elegant black gown. This is a fabulous option for brides that do not want to wear white, or who want to make a style statement that is still sophisticated. The colour of the respective accessories can then be swopped too, so that each of them can introduce an element of the other colour in their attire.

Quirky accessories make a statement and add a touch of fun to your outfit. These may include black and white checked shoes, zebra-print dresses or waistcoats, and so on.

To incorporate black into your flowers (which will, presumably, be made up of white flowers), add beaded blooms (available from crafters), black feathers or ribbon.

Décor
Any of your usual design or décor elements (such as the table cloths, chair covers, placemats, and so on) can be created in black and white or dyed to fit your theme. However, the following items and prints can also be incorporated as they are known for their black and white scheme.

Some of these will create a more formal ambience, while others will be more fun and casual:

• Black & White photographs displayed throughout the reception and or ceremony venue (these can be romantic, of famous rock stars, etc…).
• Checked flags
• Zebra print
• Dice
• Polka dots
• Black night sky with white glittery stars
• Chess boards (these make very interesting centrepieces and will get your guests talk – or playing)
• Tuxedos (a wedding cake dressed in its very own tux is sure to be the topic of conversation)
• Orcas or penguins
• Yin Yang symbols

Image Courtesy of Ruffled