How to wear white in the winter

January 13, 2009

Can you really wear a white dress in January?

Winter Whites...
Can you really wear a white dress in January?

Hi! First off...LOVE YOU! Quick question-- it is currently the month of January, so the middle of the winter. Going along with the whole "don't wear white after Labor Day" thought, can you reallywear a white dress after Labor Day? I’m thinking about wearing a white dress with black buttons, a black belt, black tights, and black pumps. Is this okay? (Geismar, LA)

Ah thanks, I love those who love me too...

LOL! White worn in the winter is more about its fabric rather than its shade, and, of course, the climate. It can be just the right color to transition you into spring or to brighten up a gloomy winter day, but its fabric needs to have a bit of body to it to avoid looking out of sync. Grounding white with a black belt, tights, and shoes will also winterize the look like the dresses shown. As will adding some layering pieces like a black cardie, pretty dark jacket, or even a layered T-shirt or sweater worn underneath.

What you don’t want to do is accessorize the winter white dress with a summer vibe. Keep all accessories on the dark side with, perhaps, an organic feel to look more winteresque without weighing it down. As the temperature rise, you can slowly start to forgo your dark tights or boots and that same dress will suddenly be refreshed just in time for spring. Never forget, it’s all in the mix!

--January 13, 2009