Tuesday, May 31, 2011

How to Wear: White Hot

The Spring 2011 runways were overflowing in white garments and the trend is hot for summer.  Crisp white garments can be interpreted many ways, but the end result is always chic.

One classic all white look is with lace.  White lace can be done all over in a dress or top, or done as appliqué or embroidery accents.  Erdem showed this sweet white frock with lace up shoes and Dolce & Gabbana showed mostly white lace garments in their Spring collection.


To get the look, pair white lace dresses or tops with neutral and sweet accessories.  Dresses look best as a shirtdress or sheath, and white tops look extra summery when paired with white denim.
 From left to right: Anthropologie Sunrise Shirt Dress in White, Anthropologie Pave Posts in Pearl, Anthropologie Giza Tote, and Anthropologie Twine Around Wedges.

From left to right: Banana Republic Embroidery Tie-Waist Halter, Anthropologie Nature-Bound Bangle in Cream, Anthropologie Stitched Bellis Tote, and J. Crew Iris Suede Sandals in Sandstone.



White also looks great when styled minimally with draping or structured details and architectural accessories.  Bill Blass showed an beautifully done draped dress, while The Row and Calvin Klein stuck to a even more minimal look.

To get the look, keep accessories sleek and clean.  That doesn't mean that have to be boring-- some of the best designed pieces aren't over the top.  The pieces should mirror the fluidity or structure of the garment.  For more on minimal dressing, read the Less is More post.
From left to right: BCBG Reed One-Shoulder Cocktail Dress, Anthropologie Creme Brulee Posts in Gold, Anya Hindmarch Marano Mirror-Effect Leather Clutch, and Elsa Peretti for Tiffany & Co. Bone Cuff.

From left to right: American Apparel Spaghetti Strap Tank Dress in White, Eileen Fisher Cascading Long Vest, Anthropologie Prospector's Prize Dangles in Silver, and Anthropologie Gilded Age Gladiators.


From left to right: Zara Knitted Top and Trousers with Front Seam, Frank Gehry for Tiffany & Co. Torque Concrete Bangle, Michael Michael Kors Sloan Oversized Python-Effect Leather Clutch, and Matiko Blake Wedges.


One of the most popular looks on the runway this spring is the crisp white paired with a saturated, bright color.  Max Mara showed hints of color with whites and Jil Sander really made the colors pop in her bright and lively collection.


The look can easily be adjusted to your comfort level- from little accessories to showstopping pieces.  Look for colors that are really bright and summer.  This trend will transition well into fall when the colors get a bit more jewel-toned.

From left to right: Zara Studio Blouse and Twill Shorts, Anthropologie Occluded Hoop Earrings in Coral, Anthropologie Pompom Zarape Clutch, and J. Crew Lilibeth Leather Sandals in Poppy.

From left to right: Zara Studio Shirt and Narrow Leg Studio Trousers, Anthropologie Tinalak Clutch, Anthropologie Accordion Drops in Orange, and Jimmy Choo Private Suede Sandals in Magenta.


When wearing white, remember to wear undergarments that match your skin tone and to carry around a stain removing stick.  Nothing like a spot of BBQ sauce to ruin a great look!  White outfits can take you from the farmer's market to the board room, from lounging poolside to drinks with the girls.  It is a great way to stay cool and look hot this summer.

XOXO,
Coco Birdie.