Fashion

How to Wear White Right

Want more white in your wardrobe? Here's how to choose classy white pieces that will up your style factor

By Diane Pereira /

Credit: Flickr / Idhren

Try a light fabric like chiffon when picking white pieces for your wardrobe

An all-white ensemble is not just for the fashion fearless. Here’s how to make this classic hue work for you

Dîner en Blanc, the most elegant picnic flash mob you will ever witness, is finally making its way to Vancouver, after a successful debut in Toronto.

Imported from ever-fashionable Paris, the event sees guests, who must adhere to the strict all-white dress code, converge at a secret outdoor location to enjoy a gourmet picnic. The site is revealed at the very last minute and once there, guests are in for an evening of the very best of French culture, dancing and mingling. 

While we love the idea of a chic flash-feast, the one thing that had us a little concerned was the elegant all-white dress code.

White, as any fashionista knows, is a hard colour to pull off. And an all-white ensemble could be fashion suicide – if done incorrectly. But if you keep your pieces simple and follow our tips, you’ll be able to sport a look that’s wothy of any Parisian bistro.


Nude shoes will break up your white ensemble and make
your legs look longer (Image: Flickr/…Love Maegan)

So if you’re heading to this stylish event, or just looking to maximize your white wardrobe before Labour Day, here’s how to wear white – in style.

3 Keys to Wearing White Right

The basics: If there’s one key rule, it’s this – your undies must be in a neutral hue. That means no white bras under a sheer top and no dark granny pants/floral undies under sheer skirts or dresses. Nothing ruins a clean, classy look more than a visible panty line. Also make sure your fabrics are heavy enough so that you don’t see the pockets or stitching through them.

The fit: White is a hard colour to wear and even if you have a rocking bod, you should probably stay away from super form-fitting duds. Think classy, not trashy, and opt for a shift dress, nicely fitted white shirt or a pair of well-cut jeans.

The hue: While bright white looks great on its own, when wearing white from head to toe, you might want to break it up and go for different hues. Try eggshell, off-white and cream, and play around with different textures as well. Lace and chiffon will add a feminine, playful touch to your outfit.

As for accessories, try to break up your ensemble with neutral-coloured hues. Invest in a pair of nude shoes – they’ll make your legs look longer and never go out of style.

Tips for Whitening Your Wardrobe


White will make your tanned skin pop.
(Image: Flickr/Idhren)

  • Ruffles and pleats will give your white pieces a modern spin – still minimalistic but striking as the same time.
  • Try a slick of a bright, bold lipstick to add some drama to your outfit, or pick a fluorescent nail polish to add a pop of colour.
  • Neon accessories go great with a white tee and jeans.
  • White eyeliner can make your eyes look bigger and brighter.  Line your lower rim and apply to the inner corners of your eyes for an immediate non-surgical face-lift.
  • And don’t forget that white looks great with a tan – even if it’s a fake one.