Can you wear white post-Labor Day? It’s a valid fashion question.
Mary Michele Nidiffer, founder of StyleFinderID.com and proprietor of StyleFinder Boutique in Raleigh, says Yes, you can.
Here are her five tips on how to pull it off:
1. From the Top Down
“One of the biggest factors to consider when wearing white after Labor Day is how you wear it,” Nidiffer says. “The way you wore it all summer is not how you’re going to carry it into fall and beyond.”
DON'T: Wear your summer-y separates. Skip the floaty tank, the bright florals and the flip-flops.
DO: Transition your outfit to include a crisp button-down, a Breton stripe, or a tee and blazer. Top it off with non-white shoes such as loafers or booties.
2. White on White
“An elegant way to wear white is to keep to a singular color. Pair white jeans with an ivory top, a cream sweater or a soft butter jacket to create a monochromatic look,” Nidiffer recommends.
DON'T: Wear your lightweight summer tops.
DO: Wear a heavier white or cream button down, sweater or tunic.
3. Third Layer
“Instead of just wearing one piece with your jeans or pants, add in a third layer — a chic lightweight trench coat, a dark denim jacket, anorak or a not-so-heavy blazer will leave no doubt as to whether you’re on trend or not,” says Nidiffer.
DON'T: Wear a skimpy white tee or tank with your white pants.
DO: Bring on the layers and play with length. If you’re wearing white skinny pants, wear a longer white tunic or top and add in a sweater, vest or jacket to create a look better suited for fall.
4. Shoe Swap
“To bring your look into fall, pair your white ankle pants with a taupe bootie, a leopard wedge or a metallic flat,” Nidiffer says. “Swapping out your summer shoes for something with a little more fall appeal punctuates your look and makes it right for right now!”
DON'T: Wear white shoes or lightweight summer sandals or flip-flops.
DO: Wear a heavier shoe such as a bootie, loafer, wedge or darker flat.
5. Flattering Fit
“When it comes to white, the fit must be just right. When wearing white, I often advise my clients to go up a size because white can be see-through and show every lump, bump and bulge. It’s not as forgiving as darker denim or pants,” Nidiffer says. “And be sure you wear nude colored lingerie underneath to keep things under wraps.”
DON'T: Wear white pants or jeans that are too snug or ride up in the crotch area.
DO: Opt for white pants that have spandex for stretch to get a better fit. Be sure you can move comfortably without being restricted.
What to wear with your white jeans or pants:
- A black turtleneck and ankle boots, a la Jackie Kennedy.
- White jeans with an ivory fisherman’s sweater, dark chunky booties and a little texture in the form of a scarf or vest such as plaid or fur.
"Pile on the layers and mix chambray, stripes, textures and more," says Nidiffer. "Keep the colors simple or bold, classic or wild, and do what makes you feel amazing."
StyleFinder Boutique
6801 Falls of Neuse Road, Raleigh
