Just like a twirl-worthy sundress or show-stopping monokini, a pair of white jeans is a style staple no summer wardrobe can go without. Unlike their indigo counterparts, white jeans make every look a little more sophisticated, plus they pretty much epitomize effortless chic (just ask Françoise Hardy). And that’s only the beginning: They make the perfect partner to just about every piece in your closet, from airy chiffon cold-shoulder tops to badass leather jackets. That’s some serious versatility right there. Don’t be afraid to expand your vestiary horizons and add a few non-skinny silhouettes to your arsenal. With the new season in full swing, this week’s Style Resolutions is serving up three fresh ways to trick out these tried-and-true bottoms for summer 2016, whether you’re headed to the office or kickin’ back with your besties at brunch.
How to Wear White Jeans for Work
Casual Friday is your chance to flex a bit of sartorial muscle, so why settle for a plain ol’ t-shirt-and-jeans combo? Up the ante of your on-duty look by mixing laid-back style essentials with polished pieces for a down-to-business ensemble that will dominate the conversation at the water cooler. Swap out boyfriend jeans for a cropped wide-leg version that could easily take the place of tailored culottes, especially when teamed with an airy striped tank and sophisticated sleeveless blazer. Round out the look with suede lace-up heels that feel downright luxe and a modern pendant necklace that can be worn solo or layered with a sleek metallic choker for extra style cred.
Madewell Wide-Leg Crop Jeans in Pure White ($128) + & Other Stories Button Shoulder Tank ($55), Topshop Double Breasted Sleeveless Jacket ($90), Miss Albright Auteur Pumps ($150), Skagen Anja Woven Leather Tote ($395), Knobbly Studio Grid + Lever Necklace ($88), Warby Parker Duval Glasses ($95)
How to Wear White Jeans for a Night Out
When a dress or skirt feels too fussy but everyday denim doesn’t quite have the oomph you’re after, take a pair of white crop jeans for a test drive. Their dressed-down edge is the perfect counterbalance to fancier pieces, like a stunning sequin top, dazzling drop earrings and classy ankle-strap heels, which is key when your after-hours agenda includes a few different events. The high-low mix will take you from dinner to drinks to dancing — no problem. For a dramatic finish, give your lips a swipe of matte berry lipstick and toss on a collarless leather jacket before heading out the door.
Madewell Wide-Leg Crop Jeans in Pure White ($128) + Tibi Éclair Sequined Silk-Georgette Camisole ($495), Mango Leather Jacket ($190), Ted Baker London Blynne Sandal ($150), Elizabeth Cole Clarabelle Jacket Earrings ($248), NARS Audacious Lipstick in Fanny ($32), Georgina Skalidi Metallic Bronze Asymmetric Clutch ($134)
How to Wear White Jeans on the Weekend
If there’s one thing white jeans do best, it’s off-the-clock dressing. Brunch, sunset sails and Art in the Park — they have you covered no matter what the occasion. Channel your inner It girl by rockin’ these wide-leg stunners with a boxy denim tank (just in case you’ve been needing a little double denim in your life) and bright botanical mules that are straight-up swoon-worthy. A silky square scarf, bucket bag and statement sunnies bring on the Parisian-chic vibes, while a gold cuff offers up just the right amount of bling.
Madewell Wide-Leg Crop Jeans in Pure White ($128) + Farylrobin Antigone Slides ($128), Madewell Monterey Fringe Bucket Bag ($178), Illesteva Milan in Horn ($300), Madewell Flagstone Bracelet ($32), Urban Outfitters Silky Square Scarf ($14), Butter London Macbeth Nail Lacquer ($15), Wilfred Free Arlenis Blouse ($75)
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