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How to Style a White Dress

 

The LBD, or little black dress, is well-known for its versatility and staying power. But just as essential for your wardrobe (in the warmer months especially) is the little white dress. It’s crisp, it’s effortless, it gives “I vacation in Europe” energy—and it can be styled a variety of ways for occasions that range from casual to swanky.


Whether it’s a timeless white shirt dress, satin midi slip dress or a flowy maxi dress that’s more your speed, you’ll find plenty of sunny-day options here, along with tips for styling your pick like a pro.  

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What color shoes go best with a white
dress?

 

Your best bet when looking for complementary footwear is
to stick with neutrals, such as browns and tans, and
textures like raffia or woven leather. These work well with
more casual dress silhouettes, or if you’re going for a
boho vibe. Heading somewhere more upscale? You can
amp up your look with shimmery metallic heels or sandals,
or contrast the white dress with a bright pop of summery
color.

How do you style a white dress?

Womens White Dresses


1. Keep it minimal.


The great thing about a little white dress is that it
doesn’t take much accessorizing to feel elevated.
Start with a simple (but polished) silhouette, like a
curve-skimming slip dress or poplin white midi
dress. Just add a pair of flat slip-on sandals,
throw your phone/wallet/keys/sunnies into a tote
and you’re ready to grab drinks on a patio or
breeze through a day of sightseeing

Womens Mini Dresses


2. Throw it over a swimsuit.


The best pieces in your wardrobe are the ones that
can serve different purposes, depending on the
occasion. Happen to have a long weekend trip in
your future? Pack a timeless Portofino Shirt Dress
that can pull double duty as a poolside cover-up by
day (don’t forget the tortoise sunglasses) and a
one-and-done beach dinner outfit by night. A pair of
wedges and a metallic handbag are all you need to
elevate the look.

Womens White Midi Dresses


3. Meet in the midi.


It’s hard not to love a midi dress—not only is it
universally flattering, but it feels easy and looks
sophisticated. And with a few edits, you can style your
favorite white midi for any plan under the sun. Layer a
classic jean jacket over top and pair with low-top
sneakers for a look you can wear all spring and summer
long. If you’re heading into the office, swap out the
jacket for a trench coat and team with slip-on loafers.

Womens White Sresses


4. Prove that opposites attract.


Oftentimes flowy white midi and maxi dresses lean
toward a romantic, feminine aesthetic—but with the
right accessories, you can make a white dress work
for your personal style. Try a leather jacket or silky
bomber jacket and boots to add a little toughness.
Don’t be afraid to go high-contrast with black
accessories either, whether that’s cowboy boots,
chunky sandals or a slouchy tote.