On their own, black and white are elegant, sophisticated and discreet colours. But when you combine them on a single garment and form a pattern the result couldn’t be any more perfect or flattering.

This year, you can find many examples of the perfect harmony between these two colours on dresses, t-shirts and sweaters from the preview of MANGO’s 2010 Spring Collection.

But, regardless of the fact that black and white are once again back in fashion, together or separately, both are key colours for your basic must-haves and are a trend that keeps making comebacks.

You already saw how dresses in different shades of grey will be must-haves for spring, but so will black and white prints! The top photo shows you a couple of dresses with sweetheart necklines and black and white print. Their shape and colours make them very flattering and perfect for all sorts of occasions.

The striped dress, which has a nautical feel to it with its contrasting red detailing, is also available as a sweater, brilliant for wearing with jeans. The other sweater you see has wider stripes and a drawing which is sure to remind you of pirate tattoos!

You’ll find the widest selection of monochrome prints on t-shirts. I love geometrical prints and here you have two suggestions, one in check and the other with spots, perfect for wearing with washed jeans.

Geometrical prints in black and white can also be seen on this knotted scarf worn with the t-shirt. Contrasting gauze and cotton makes the basic t-shirt sophisticated.

There is also room for illustrations, like with this t-shirt with pictures of black animals and chains against a white background.