Loving Basic Black & White

Last week I waxed poetic on the importance of color in the home. Specifically, in mine. This still holds true. But today? I will see that thought, and raise you this one: sometimes, it's just got to be black and white. I love black and white together. Black and white check, polka dot, stripes or harlequin'd diamond patterns... Perfectly chandelierious!
Like my post about the virtue of the chandelier the black and white combination can belong anywhere, becoming a natural addition to a traditional settings, or eclectic and whimsical styles.
For example, a check is the perfect accent pattern to set off a floral, or stripe. It sets off paint colors beautifully as well, framing whatever it surrounds, making everything "pop". Visually interesting while simultaneously neutral.

Almost every room in my home is dotted with black and white patterns. Two of my favorite examples being my kitchen floor...(say hi to Chloe and Trixie!)

...and this french provincial settee I found at the thrift store and had reupholstered for my daughter Eloise's room...one of a kind, custom vintage fab.

Try it! You just might like it. Take a chance with something small like a chandelier cord/chain cover, a curtain, a pillow...or go big with a surprising piece of furniture or retro checkerboard floor! 
Oh yes, sometimes life is simply black & white.