It’s no surprise that monochrome remains a steadfast favourite in the world of fashion. Its timeless elegance and versatility make it a fail-safe choice. However, while it exudes sophistication, an overreliance on monochrome can sometimes feel uninspired or overly austere. Fortunately, there are more nuanced and flattering ways to craft a chic ensemble, one of which is the artful technique known as le rappel. This understated yet impactful styling strategy, championed by Marielle Wyse, the visionary French founder of Wyse London, elevates even the simplest of outfits, particularly when working with patterns. For minimalists hesitant to embrace prints, le rappel offers a compelling argument for introducing subtle patterns into your wardrobe.
Le rappel, which translates to “the reminder” or “recall,” involves selecting a single hue from your patterned piece and echoing it in other elements of your outfit. Importantly, the pattern in question doesn’t need to be bold or overt; subtle textures like tweed, houndstooth, checks, polka dots, or pinstripes all qualify. The chosen colour for the rappel doesn’t have to dominate the pattern either; often, it’s the recessive or secondary shades that lend an air of refinement and sophistication.
Take, for example, the houndstooth jacket featured in the first image. Its palette comprises three equally prominent tones: burgundy, ivory, and a deep, nearly black brown. By pairing it with burgundy trousers, the outfit achieves a harmonious balance. However, as the seasons shift and the weather warms, transitioning to brown, black, or cream trousers would work equally well, demonstrating the versatility of this technique.
Le rappel isn’t confined to patterned garments. Even in solid-color outfits, the principle can be applied creatively. For instance, layering a jumper over a white crewneck T-shirt, allowing the white neckline to peek through—introduces a secondary colour that can be echoed in your trousers or skirt. Similarly, a striped cotton vest or an Argyle tank top opens up additional opportunities for rappel, adding depth and cohesion to your fashion look.
Accessories also play a pivotal role in mastering le rappel. Silk and cotton scarves, trims, and contrast stitching such as the ever-popular blanket stitch can subtly tie an outfit together. Even typography on T-shirts or jumpers offers a chance to experiment with rappel by matching the color of the lettering to another element of your ensemble. These thoughtful touches transform a casual outfit into one that appears meticulously curated.
Striped cotton shirts, particularly those featuring three colours (especially when the third is understated), are ideal for le rappel. They offer more styling possibilities than monochromatic stripes and allow for mood-driven versatility. For example, a navy, white, and brown striped shirt paired with navy or white trousers exudes a crisp, spring-ready freshness. Conversely, matching it with brown trousers evokes a more autumnal, unexpected vibe.
The key to executing le rappel successfully lies in restraint. Over-matching can undermine the sophistication of the look. Instead, aim for subtlety—keep shoes and bags in a single, cohesive colour rather than introducing multiple block colours that compete for attention.
Once you internalize the concept of le rappel, it becomes an intuitive and enjoyable way to craft outfits that embody the polish of a suit without its inherent formality. This technique not only enhances your personal fashion but also demonstrates a mastery of fashion’s finer details. De rien—it’s all in a day’s work for the sartorially savvy.