A black and white outfit may scream simple and basic for some, but the magnificent masterpieces designed by esteemed milliner Philip Treacy for Royal Ascot last week proved that black and white creations are the farthest thing from boring. From singer Ciara to the Duchess of Sussex, celebrities got the classic race day look just right in Treacy’s hats.

Ciara

Ciara kept her Royal Ascot look simple. Her white Edeline Lee dress was perfect for the occasion, complete with flowing sleeves and a matching belt. She finished the look with black Louboutin pumps and her Philip Treacy hat. The swooping black and white creation accentuated her height. Beneath the brim of the hat is an oversized black flower, which makes the entire look more dramatic. With her husband, American football player Russell Wilson, on her arm in a top hat, the singer took black and white to the next level.

Meghan, Duchess of Sussex

The Duchess also took black and white to a dramatic new level for the first day of Royal Ascot, looking stunning in her white collared dress, chignon bun and Philip Treacy hat.

Her hat featured a white center and swooping sheer, black crin brim. A strong, thin black bow offset the dominant shape of the hat. For her first appearance at the Royal Ascot, Her Royal Highness did not disappoint.

While you may think that in order to make a statement you must be wearing a bold color, black and white outfits can be just as bold. With beautiful designs like Treacy’s and confidence like Ciara and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, black and white should be your new color pairing for the summer.