When I first met my husband he told me his favorite colors in clothing and interiors were black and white, together or alone, because they were so classic. At the time, autumn shades were popular – rust, olive and mustard – so his choices made me sit up and take notice: Hmm. This boy was a keeper!

Joe’s best-loved hues became the go-to colors for many people years later, especially in New York. By the 1990s black was worn by lots of Manhattanites day and night, summer and winter, and lots of rooms were being infused with shades of ebony, ivory or both.

Today, color is once again popular yet the yin and yang shades remain timeless favorites. Teamed up, black and white can create a dramatic effect, with or without another accent color. Used individually with other hues, black accents can make any room or outfit look more sophisticated. And, pops of white can brighten up any space or ensemble the same way newly whitened teeth can perk up a smile.

And, happily all these years later, Joe continues to be a keeper, too.