You have your favorite colors, right? Some of them may be your favorites to wear. Or your favorites in décor. Or your favorite color flower. And if you think about it, you might have your favorite colors to wear in certain seasons. Like rust and olive in the fall. Or red over the holidays. Or pastels in spring and bright colors in summer.
I have my favorite colors, too. But my favorite color for summer isn’t actually a color – technically, it’s a shade. It’s white.
Why do I love white in summer? It’s less about the color white and more about how it plays off of other colors. White just feels so fresh in the summer months. And it makes most every other color feel summer-right, too.
Here are a few of my favorite ways to wear white in the summer (via a bunch of outfits I created for clients), along with some tips on timeless summer style.
WHITE WITH BRIGHTS
White with bright colors is a classic summer combo – you pretty much can’t go wrong. It feels perfect for warm weather and it instantly puts you in a summery mood.
White plus a pop color (or two) is a no-brainer outfit formula. You may think that black is the default color that goes with everything. But white does, too! If you’re inspired by this color combo, read this for more fun color pairings.
If you’re into an even bolder statement, use white to ground a busy, colorful print. It’s definitely an attention getting look - but still super stylish.
For something a little tamer - but still with presence - pair shades of white and ivory with a colored piece. It’s a fun play on monochromatic dressing (click here for tips on creating monochromatic outfits).
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again - white goes with every color. So, while this outfit would work just as well with a different color jacket, a white one makes it feel perfect for summer.
Don’t just stick to clothes when pairing white with brights - you can play with your accessories too. Especially if you prefer something more subtle, denim + white + bright accessories = a totally fun summer look. Check out this article for more examples of how accessories add interest to your outfits.
And speaking of accessories, don’t forget about white shoes and bags. A white/off-white bag is a great way to sprinkle a little summer into your outfit.
WHITE WITH NEUTRALS
If you’re not into a bright and bold color statement, white with pale and earth-toned neutrals is a super sophisticated pairing. You can pair white with tan or taupe or light grey for minimal contrast, or with olive and deeper shades for something just as interesting.
White with pale neutrals is one of my favorite color combos. And while you may think this only works in warm weather - it’s great all year round. Read this for some other color myths that you don’t need to listen to anymore.
Some clients get caught up when they’re pairing prints and solids. They think you need to match a color in the print. But I think you know my answer - when you’re not sure what color to pair something with, try it with white!
Here’s a simple summer outfit formula: white shorts + elevated t-shirt + cute sneakers. (If you’re unfamiliar, this article explains everything about an elevated t-shirt).
When you’re wearing less clothes in summer, your accessory choices become more important. And you can’t go wrong with metallic accessories (like these wedges). Here’s why I love metallic accessories as a go-with-everything option.
Another one of my favorite color combinations is white and olive. Olive is traditionally a fall color - but white makes olive feel fresh all year round.
While this look isn’t technically white with a pale neutral, it’s white with pale blue jeans and pale neutral accessories (another combo I love). And if you’re not a fan of a white denim jacket, a white blazer is another versatile summer third piece. Check out how to wear one to the office, a summer wedding or weekend brunch.
WHITE WITH BLACK
If you love black, you don’t have to give it up in summer. Black and white is timeless – and white tames the seriousness of black, so it still feels right for the season.
I know I’ve shown a bunch of outfits with white bottoms - but even the simple pairing of a white top with black shorts feels completely summer-right.
If you dress business professional for work, white pants are the most straightforward way to update your wardrobe staples in warm weather. Think about it - this blazer and top works with dark neutrals in fall and winter. And it’s great for spring with a pop color pant. But it feels totally fresh with white for summer.
I specifically recommend a white denim jacket as a spring/summer option for my clients who wear blue denim jackets. The simple shift in color completely updates your vibe, but still feels familiar and comfortable. Read this to find out why I love denim jackets (no matter the color).
Black and camel are no-brainers with cheetah and leopard prints. But the addition of white totally updates it for the season. Some people think that cheetah/leopard print is only for fall and winter - but I disagree. Click here to see 3 summer outfits I created with cheetah and leopard accessories.
If your black and white outfit feels a little flat, add a print. I bought this black and white gingham skirt with a long term client. She’s an interior designer - and she needs outfits that look professional and stylish, even when it’s super hot at an outdoor job site.
Another way to add interest to a black and white look is with texture and shine. This slightly sheer blouse has a bunch of textural depth. And the acrylic necklace, silver bracelet and studded belt add a few hits of necessary shine - it’s a pretty perfect look for date night. Click here for a bunch of other black and white date night looks I created for my clients.
And just so you know, these aren’t all the ways I like to play with white in the summer. A few more of my favorites (that I already alluded to) are:
White with navy.
White with stripes.
White with pale blue denim.
White with bold prints.
What’s your favorite way to wear white in the summer? Drop a comment to let me know!
If you’re looking to update how you wear color, align your style with your lifestyle or just feel better about what you’re wearing (but you’re not sure where to start), click here to read about the steps I’ve taken with hundreds of clients to evolve their style. And if you want to hear what some of my clients have to say, check out a few testimonials.