How to Style an All-White Outfit
Anyone who says white can only be worn until Labor Day hasn’t had the right styling advice. All-white outfits can and should be worn year-round. With summer in full swing, here’s how to style your monochromatic moment this season.
If your concern with wearing white during the summertime (or any time, really) is that it can clash with your complexion and make you feel washed out, there are some foolproof ways to make sure this concern is unfounded.
Find The Shade For You
Despite “white” being just one color, in fashion, there are many variations of white. Finding the shades that work best for you will make building all-white outfits easier. Think of it this way: choosing a flattering shade of white for yourself is akin to selecting a foundation for your face. You want to pick a color that plays with your natural undertones, not against them. Don’t be afraid to try more than one shade of white against your skin to see which makes you look and feel the best. Once you find a shade that you enjoy, you can begin building your all-white wardrobe.
Try Various Fabrics in White
Not all white fabrics lay the same against all bodies, not all materials are as opaque as others, and these factors also work with your natural complexion. If you’re looking for a very bright, crisp white look, consider a thicker or more structured white fabric like poplin, oxford, twill. On the other hand, if you want a softer, more natural appearance that offers more of your complexion peeking through, reach for a thinner or lightweight material like linen, jersey, or chiffon.
Depending on where you’re headed, your outfit might call for more or less polish. After all, a day at the pool is different from a cocktail hour.
Poolside
An all-white casual ensemble can be as simple as a cotton tank and white linen shorts. Add a pair of white sneakers or a neutral espadrille, and you’re ready to lounge in style.
Weekend with Friends
White denim is a summertime staple for a reason–it’s comfortable, easy to match, and never goes out of style. For a dressy-casual outfit in white, try your white denim with a silky ivory blouse. A relaxed white cardigan over the shoulders is the perfect final touch for your look.
Summer Dinner Party
Every closet needs a crisp, white button-up, and this is one of the occasions why. Pair your button-up shirt with a flowing white pant or midi skirt for dinner. A white blazer can dress anything up–throw one over your shoulders and you’re set.
Hats
Spring and summer are wonderful times to play with new styles of headwear. Not only are our hats practical for protecting you from the sun, but they can make fun additions to your everyday wardrobe. Try wearing hats in warm-weather fabrics like straw, and go for styles that match the season: visors, wide-brim hats, even cowboy hats when a western-themed party calls.
Jewelry
Gold and silver both pair nicely with white ensembles, but when it comes to a matching moment, there’s an even better alternative: pearls. Whether they’re freshwater or saltwater, plastic or real, non-colored pearls will always pair beautifully with white pieces.
Belts
White leather belts might be a perfect match with your ensemble, but they won’t do much against the color of your ensemble. This is great if you want a look that’s 100% white, but if you want some subtle contrast, try a belt in a neutral shade of tan. If you’re interested in something a touch louder, you can add a fun colored belt, but match it to a pair of shoes to keep the outfit cohesive.