IMAGE & STYLE
Tips to Wearing Winter Whites Correctly By Kelly A. Smith
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he rules for wearing whites after Labor Day have changed drastically from days gone by. Whether its snowy or cold, I still like to wear a pretty winter white ensemble, so why not channel your inner snow bunny? A lack of snow shouldn’t be the only reason to break out the brights and whites, but the way we wear whites does need to be tweaked from its summer likeness. It’s really all about switching up the way we layer pieces, the fit and even shades of white. If you want a fast way to freshen up your dark and dreary winter duds, read on for some tips on how to lighten up your look in no time! MIX THOSE WHITES, RIGHT – Try to mix different shaded of white as to avoid the snow-blind look. You can intermix shades of oatmeal, cream, beige, ecru and even tan/camel. These will all flow nicely together since they are in the same neutral color palette. These can all be fashionably paired with a top or bottom of an opposing neutral color such as black or gray. FLAWLESS FABRIC PICKS – If you’re going to wear whites this time of year, then you better be sure that they are “frosty season-friendly.” This means you can’t just pull out a pair of lightweight white denim from your summer stash or toss on a sheer white, eyeleted laden breezy blouse that you last wore on your summer vacay. You will definitely kill the look if you attempt to do this, so do be sure to buy heavier fabric items. Make sure to look for pieces that offer heavier fabrics and textures for an undeniably winter-chic style BREAK UP YOUR WHITES – If you aren’t a fan of hopping on the winter white bandwagon full speed, there are still a few ways to incorporate a stylish winter wonderland look. Printed leggings that have some white accents would pair nicely with a chunky cable knit, off-
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white sweater or a sleek knit tunic in ecru. Faux fur is always in season so why not crank up the heat by pairing up dark, denim jeans with a furry, winter white jacket? You can also add a statement sweater or coat with a black and white print, or keep your upper half dark and add some off-white knee boots to the mix. TEXTURE AND LAYERING – Piling on the layers in winter is a no-brainer, but do be sure that you are mixing and matching coordinating shades of white. If you want to showcase a head-to-toe white ensemble, you’ll need to break it up a bit in order to pull of the look. For example, you can add dimension to an all-white outfit by mixing varying shades of cream, bone and white. To finish the look, add a pop of color, such as black with your shoes or purse. You’ll still have that monochromatic look you crave but the dark will add some much-needed depth and warmth. FABULOUS FIT – Since white isn’t as forgiving as its counterpart, black, you’ll need to make sure your pieces fit. Don’t try to squeeze into anything that’s a size too small. On occasion, that may work with a pair of dark denim, but it won’t fly with white—everything shows with light colors. Therefore, be sure to get the proper fit. The same can be said for a too baggy jacket or blazer. If a top is too loose fitting, it will make you appear larger. Do get the right size or have it tailored because an impeccable fit gives a sophisticated vibe to any outfit. When it comes to surviving winter in style, knowing how to wear white, right is a good tool to have in your arsenal. Refresh your cold-weather wardrobe with just a little bit of inspiration and a lot of know-how, and you will quickly be inspiring all those around you to go from dark and dull, to frosty and fabulous! n
