Rules for Wearing White

Rules for Wearing White

Here’s a riddle: what looks good on everyone, but the very thought of wearing it strikes fear in people’s hearts? The answer? The color white.

Studio 5 Contributor ShaLyse Walker breaks down the rules for wearing this crisp, clean summer color!


Here’s a riddle: What looks good on everyone, but the very thought of wearing it strikes fear in people’s hearts? The Answer: the color white. Wearing white right flatters the skin tone, makes bold colors pop, and looks perfectly fresh for summer. However, there are a few hang-ups that many people have, like the myth that wearing white always adds pounds. Also, do all white shoes have to look like you stole them from a nurse? Not so! Here are a few rules for pulling off all things white.

How to Wear White Slacks:

The white slack has long scared even the leanest of ladies. When looking for a great white slack to wear to the office, lunch with girls, or a night out on the town, look for a slack made with a nice, sturdy, and preferably lined material. Also, do not feel size conscious when purchasing a white pant. No matter how hard it may be, it’s always best to size up. White and too tight do not go together! Make sure to wear seamless or nude undergarments to avoid any lines. Pair your white slacks with a bold, bright top and white and gold jewelry to pull the look together. When it comes to your top, the bolder the color, the better. Pastels paired with white tend to look like you’re dressing up for Easter Sunday.

White Slacks: Elie Tahari $120 at Nordstrom

Turquoise Blouse: Ted Baker $180 at Nordstrom

Gold and White Cuff: $28 at Nordstrom

How to Wear a White Dress:

When rocking a white dress, it’s imperative to avoid looking bridal. Instead, go for crisp, clean lines in a tea length. For a flattering look for all body types, look for A-line styles that cinch in at the waist and skim the hips and thighs. Instead of white shoes, choose a nude or neutral shoe to elongate the leg.

White Dress: $99 at Ralph Lauren Polo Outlet

How to Wear White Accessories:

Yes, it is possible to wear white shoes without looking like you work in the medical field. When wearing a white shoe, make sure the shoe has some wood, espadrille, or rope detailing in a neutral color to break up look. An all white shoe will draw the eye down instead of complimenting the outfit. Avoid patent white shoes as they also draw attention away from the overall look and more often than not, can look cheap. Add crispness to a colorful look with a skinny white belt, or add a great white necklace to bring attention to the face. A sweet clutch or purse with white details finishes off the perfect summery look.

White Rope Detail Shoe: $119 Via Spiga at Dillards

Pink Floral Top: $49 at J Crew

White Skinny Belt: $28 at Macys

How to Wear a White Blazer:

Wondering what to pair with a white blazer? The answer: anything but white. Let that white jacket shine by wearing it with a colorful, fun skirt and complimentary colored bright top. The white blazer will create a “color-blocked” look—a huge summer trend. A white blazer or jacket tones down any color combo and immediately makes it office appropriate! Another idea: go nautical with the white blazer and pair it with dark jeans or navy slacks and a striped top. Darling!

White Blazer $158 at Ann Taylor

Turquoise Skirt $28 at TJ Maxx

6 comments