By Jennifer Bakken

White Denim: A Year-Round Staple

Saturday, February 14, 2009

White Denim: A Year-Round Staple
First, let's talk about a couple myths about white denim:

Myth #1: White denim is only appropriate to wear in spring and summer and not to be worn after Labor Day. This is no longer true as far as the "rules of fashion*" go, (*I should clarify that as far as I can tell this is a U.S. rule only and the Europeans have never abided by it). White denim can be worn year-round, if you do it right.

Myth #2: Only thin women can really "wear" white denim. White denim, when you choose a style to fit YOUR body type, is incredibly flattering and eye-catching (in a good way) – on ALL body types.

What does it mean to wear white denim "correctly"? I'll give you a few examples:  

How to wear white denim now:  Choose a trouser-fit since it's an incredibly flattering cut on everyone. The trouser-fit in white allows us to have not-so-perfectly-thin legs (and for nobody else to know that but us).
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I pair this look with a classic grey turtleneck sweater. I also suggest adding a pair of tan or black high heel boots to finish the look.
Joe's Jeans, Trouser in frost (shown above), for $187.00 revolveclothing.com
Hayden, flannel grey cashmere basic turtleneck, for $119.00 bluefly.com

A second classic look is to pair white denim with black. This example is always in style and will work year-round. The key to pulling together an appropriate look is choosing the right weight in the top.
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I love to invest in a black blazer that you can wear right now. In the summer, pair it with a t-shirt or a tank, then add a classic black pump to amp up the sexiness.
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The white denim examples I selected are not only classic, but are a brand that everyone should own. And you'd be hard-pressed to beat the price on these denim!
Levi's, Mid-rise Straight 552 denim, for $59.50 us.levi.com
Rag & Bone, Skinny Blazer, for $545.00 neimanmarcus.com

My third and final look is a nautical one.  There's something so comforting to know that this look, navy/red/white, looks fresh year after year.
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To pull this one together, choose a classic pair of cropped white denim.
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Add a relaxed yet pretty blouse in navy and white and finish it off with a pair of red flats.
7 For All Mankind, "Gwenevere" skinny jeans, for $169 bloomingdales.com
J.Crew, Silk beach-stripe tunic, for $128 jcrew.com

Jennifer Bakken is a San Francisco based wardrobe consultant. For more information: cabinetdenvie.com.
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updated 4 years ago