Embrace white in style: Fashion pundits dole out styling tips to elevate your summer looks

There can be no perfect time than summer to bring out the white fabrics from your wardrobe. Contrary to popular belief, white isn't just for beach vacations or special occasions. It's a versatile colour that can easily be incorporated into everyday looks. From dresses, and shorts to tank tops, you must embrace white and make a cool summer fashion statement. If you are looking for ways to style your whites this summer, we have celebrity stylists and fashion designers spilling out the beans.

Pooja Karanam, a celebrity fashion stylist and wardrobe consultant says, "White clothing contributes to a fresh and breezy summer aesthetic by creating a sense of lightness and airiness. It's a classic that can never go wrong."

Nishit Gupta, director, KALKI opines, "White clothing reflects sunlight and heat, creating a fresh and breezy aesthetic that is perfect for summer. The crisp and clean look of white enhances the overall feeling of lightness and airiness in summer outfits. On the contrary, dark colors like black, navy blue, and charcoal grey absorb more heat and can make the body feel warmer in hot weather. It is best to avoid wearing these colours during the summer months."

Saaksha Bhat of fashion label Saaksha and Kinni who recently presented their collection at the FDCI X Lakme Fashion Week 2024 displaying an exciting array of summery swimwear, states, "Some people falsely believe that white is too much of a blank canvas and thus boring. However, the simplicity of white actually offers endless styling possibilities, allowing for vibrant and varied accessory options."

Similarly, Pallavi Singhee, founder of the fashion label Verb mentions, "People also think that white or light-coloured clothes make one look larger. However, it's not the colour but the style and fit of the clothing that affects one's appearance. Choosing the right style and fit can make all the difference. Further, White is associated with purity, clarity, and innocence, making it a perfect choice for creating a peaceful and positive vibe in one's appearance. So there is no reason why anyone should steer from sporting white."

Also Read: Fashion pundits dissect the ‘Quiet Luxury' fashion trend, share tips to ace it

Styling tips to look cool in summer
We share an exhaustive list of tips shared by the fashion pundits:

For women:
1. Embrace the ethereal feel of summer with flowing white dresses or skirts paired with a lightweight blouse.

2. Combine different textures like lace, chiffon, and cotton for a visually interesting and dynamic outfit.

3. Pair white jeans with a striped tee and sneakers for an effortlessly stylish daytime look.

4. Layer sheer white fabrics like organza or chiffon for a romantic and airy ensemble.

5. Add a pop of colour to the overall look. Use bright accessories like pinks, greens, and yellows in bags, shoes, or jewellery to look radiant and fresh. A bright lip colour can also elevate a simple white outfit.

6. Pair a white cotton dress with colourful accessories for a vibrant look.

7. Layer a white blouse with cotton palazzo pants for a casual yet chic ensemble.

8. Opt for a white linen jumpsuit for effortless summer sophistication.

9. Create a classic summer ensemble by pairing a pastel salwar suit with minimal silver jewellery.

10. Style a flowy organza saree and statement jewellery for a festive summer look.

11. Style a crisp white dress with a summer hat, colourful sandals or heels. Complement with an oversized colourful tote for practicality and style.

Also Read: Anamika Khanna tells Mid-day.com why she chose Shanaya Kapoor as her showstopper

For men:
1. Pair a white linen shirt with lightweight cotton trousers and a textured blazer for a sophisticated yet relaxed vibe.

2. Opt for a head-to-toe white ensemble, playing with different shades and textures for added depth.

3. Pair white denim shorts with a pastel-coloured polo shirt for a laid-back yet polished look.

4. Add interest to a white outfit with colourful accessories like a vibrant belt or patterned pocket square.

5. Experiment with subtle prints or patterns on white shirts for a modern twist on classic summer style.

6. Pair white shirts or tees with colourful belts or shoes for a subtle yet effective splash of colour.

7. Opt for a colourful watch strap or sunglasses to add a fun element to the outfit.

8. A crisp white summer tee paired with linen trousers or shorts creates a relaxed yet stylish look.

9. Light-coloured or white trousers can be styled with neutral or coloured shirts, a summer hat, and sunglasses to achieve a look of effortless elegance.

10. Pair your white linen kurtas with mojari footwear for a relaxed yet polished look.

11. Combine a white embroidered short kurta with or even shorts for a timeless style.

12. Experiment with a kurta paired with beige pants for a traditional twist.

13. Team up your long kurta with chic sandals for a fresh and breezy ensemble.

14. Achieve a sleek aesthetic by pairing white tailored pants with a crisp white kurta shirt.

Also Read: Office fashion: Outfit ideas for working professionals to look comfortably stylish

Accessorising ideas to complete the look
"Accessorising white outfits is where you can let your personal style shine. Consider adding pops of colour with statement jewellery, scarves, or sunglasses. A straw hat or tote bag can also complement a white ensemble beautifully, adding a touch of summer flair," suggests Karanam.

Tips by Gupta of KALKI:
1. Accessorise a white dress with statement jewellery like colourful earrings or a chunky necklace.

2. Add a pop of colour with a vibrant scarf or printed shawl draped over your ensemble.

3. Complete the look with oversized sunglasses for a chic summer vibe over kurtas.

4. Layer a white outfit with a linen jacket for added dimension and style.

5. Choose footwear in neutral tones to complement a white ensemble.

6. Carry a straw tote or canvas bag with colourful embellishments for a playful touch.

Tips by Bhat of Saaksha and Kinni
1. Pair your outfit with statement sandals or heels.

2. Add a fun summer hat to complete any Western look.

3. Stack bracelets to add more depth to your attire.

4. Use a lightweight coloured cardigan.

5. Incorporate a statement belt for an elevated look.

Additionally, Singhee of Verb states that besides these accessorising ideas, "Opting for accessories made from sustainable materials can also add an eco-friendly touch to your summer style."

Use white clothing with other summer colours
Light shades like pastels and neutrals are ideal to be worn in summer for their ability to reflect sunlight, stylist Karanam tells Mid-day.com.

Sharing his summer palette, Gupta of KALKI states, "Soft pastel colours like light blue, mint green, and pale pink are ideal for summer as they create a cool and refreshing vibe."

Bhat of Saaksha and Kinni and Singhee of Verb also agree that Pastel shades such as pinks, yellows, and baby blues are excellent for summer. These colours are light and warm, enhancing the airy feel of summer styling.

Also Read: Why some people are obsessed with wearing black clothes

Tips for styling white and other summer shades:

1. By Karanam:
For men
Try pairing white with shades of blue, green, or khaki for a fresh and sophisticated look.

For women
Experiment with pastel hues like blush pink, mint green, or sky blue for a more soft and feminine aesthetic.

2. By Gupta
For women:
Pair a white crop top with pastel-coloured skirts for a soft and feminine look.

Style a white blouse with floral-printed pants for a fun and playful ensemble.

Combine a white dress with bright accessories like yellow sandals or a pink scarf for a pop of colour.

Pair a white cotton kurta with a sheer organza or chiffon dupatta in a complementary colour.

Experiment with sheer embroidered jackets over your white ensembles for an elegant touch.

For men:
Pair a white kurta with light blue or mint green shorts for a refreshing summer outfit.

Combine white pants with a striped or printed kurta shirt in shades of blue or green for a sophisticated look.

Opt for a white linen kurta paired with beige or light grey trousers for a classic summer ensemble.

Pair a white button-down long kurta with light blue or mint green shorts to create a cool and breezy summer ensemble.

Style white pants with striped or patterned kurtas in tones of blue or green for an elevated and refined appearance.

3. By Bhat
For women:
Integrate pops of vibrant summer colours like pinks, oranges, yellows, and blues through shoes, bags, hats, or belts.

For men:
Use greens, blues, purples, and reds in shirts, pocket scarves, or loafers to add a splash of colour to a summery white outfit.

4. By Singhee
White acts as a blank canvas, allowing vibrant summer colours to stand out. For both men and women, mixing white with bright accessories or clothing pieces such as scarves, hats, or even a colourful layer like a cardigan or blazer can create a dynamic and attractive summer look.

Styling tips for those hesitant to wear white

By Karanam:
If you are hesitant to embrace white clothing in your summer wardrobe, start small. Incorporate white pieces gradually, mixing them with your existing wardrobe staples to create effortless looks that feel true to your style.
Experiment with different styles and silhouettes until you find what works best for you, and don't be afraid to have fun with it.

By Gupta:
1. Start by incorporating small white accessories like scarves or stud earrings into your outfits to ease into wearing white.

2. Experiment with different shades of white, such as ivory or cream, to find the hue that complements your skin tone best.

3. Don't be afraid to mix and match white pieces with other colours and patterns to create unique and stylish looks.

Choice of fabric is essential for optimal comfort
The choice of fabric is crucial for the suitability and comfort of white clothing in summer climates. Opt for lightweight and breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or chambray to ensure maximum comfort and ventilation.

When it comes to caring for white garments in summer, prevention is key. Avoid wearing white clothing when applying sunscreen or self-tanner to prevent stains. Always follow the care instructions on the garment's label, and consider using a gentle bleach alternative or whitening agent to keep whites looking bright and fresh.

Be mindful of the deodorants and perfumes you use as they can stain white fabrics. Always go for dry cleaning for white clothing. One common mistake is overlooking proper washing techniques, which can result in yellowing or staining.

Additionally, ensure your whites are stored away from direct sunlight to prevent fading. Consider investing in fabric protectors for added defence.

With all these tips in your hat, go ahead and embrace the crisp, clean aesthetic of white this summer. It is a style decision you won't regret.