This Expensive-Looking Trend Is Seriously Chic (If You Avoid Coffee and Kids)

by Judith Jones

At least once a week, I like to live dangerously. And by that, I mean I slip into a chic head-to-toe white outfit despite the fact that a) I have one seriously messy toddler and b) I drink a copious amount of tea and coffee. Sometimes, when it comes to fashion, the heart wins over the head! An all-white outfit is sumptuously sophisticated and inherently expensive looking—even if you haven't spent a fortune on it.

A flurry of all-white outfits sashayed down the runways this year, from billowy lace dresses to sleek, relaxed tailoring. If that's not enough to get you excited, Instagram's style set has been showing us a myriad of cool and easy ways to wear the tricky trend, proving that there's no better time than summer to take on the style. (Although, I do advise keeping coffee and messy kids at a safe distance!)

The key to pulling off the trend this summer is to play with textures, layering, and volume, which will keep your look interesting. Also, don't be afraid of breaking up the look with contrasting accessories, from black sandals to gold jewelry. If an all-white outfit feels a little daunting, mix it up by adding buttery neutrals. Below, I'm sharing some seriously cool all-white outfits to help you take on the trend this summer.

Asymmetric Top + Tennis Skirt + Tube Socks + Sneakers

Photo:

@laurencrowe88

Lean into the preppy tennis trend we're seeing all over the 'gram this summer and pair a tennis skirt with a chic asymmetric tank top. Finish with of-the-moment crew socks and crisp white retro sneakers.

Milkmaid Top + Linen Pants + Headscarf + Hoops

Photo:

@sophiabrenn

Milkmaid-style tops are having a major moment this season. Try a white one with a relaxed pair of high-waisted linen pants, and complete your look with gold hoops and a hair scarf for one charming summer ensemble.

White Tee + White Jeans + Flip-Flops + Straw Bag

Photo:

@pernilleteisbaek

There's nothing simpler and more effortless than a crisp white tee and jeans. Pair them with a summer-ready straw bag and sophisticated flip-flops.

White Bikini + Button-Down Shirt + Gold Jewelry

Photo:

@lefevrediary

As sunbathing weather hits, opt for a minimalist-chic white bikini paired with an oversize white button-down. A smattering of gold jewelry will add interest to the look. Classic yet chic.

White Tank Top + White Jeans + Sneakers

Photo:

@matildadjerf

A white tank top is a summer essential. For a casual-cool look, style the basic with white jeans and Converse.

Long Shorts + Blazer + Tee

Photo:

@anoukyve

Relaxed shorts suits continue to be much loved among the style set. Opt for long shorts and a blazer in lightweight fabrics, and break up the look with a contrasting black tee.

Slip Dress + Sporty Sandals + Crochet Bag

Photo:

@naomielizee

All-white outfits don't need to be complicated. In fact, a chic white slip dress and sporty sandals are striking in their own simplicity. Finish the look with a white crochet bag.