When I think of summer dressing, the first items that come to mind are denim shorts, tank tops, and sundresses. But that certainly isn't the case everywhere. Sure, tank tops are a universal staple, just like linen frocks and an easy pair of cutoff shorts. But in some places, an entirely different garment reigns supreme when warm temperatures arrive, and it's one we hardly give enough credit to here in the United States. And that, my fashion friends, is the white trouser.
White trousers are elegant, understated, and even billowy in the way only André Aciman, author of Call Me By Your Name, can adequately describe in words. In Italy and France, two summer destinations Americans often plan to visit months in advance, the white trouser is absolutely essential. Whether paired with a crisp white shirt, a ribbed tank top, or an oversized tee, there's really nothing you can't style alongside a simple pair of white slacks, no matter the material, shade, or silhouette. Linen or cotton, stark white or ivory, straight or wide leg—take your pick. Ahead, see for yourself the sartorial prowess of the anti-jeans trend that dominates Europe's fashion capitals every summer.
It's almost funny how easy this outfit is to put together. It's just white trousers, a black belt, and a baggy white tee, and yet, it's so utterly chic and elevated.
Shop:
I do a double take every time I see these trousers and their price at Nordstrom.
This whole outfit deserves to be in your summer wardrobe.
Linen trousers are going to get a "yes" from me.
Don't sweat about your vacation wardrobe. A simple white tank with matching wide-leg linen trousers looks just as special as any colorful dress or set you've been eying.
Shop:
Maximum comfort.
Oh yeah, I'm into these.
*Orders immediately for summer.*
Don't come for me. I know these are jeans, but the styling was too perfect to ignore. Swap out Sylvie's white denim pants for a pair of cotton trousers, and be on your way.
Shop:
You can always count on Rag & Bone to put out a great pair of pants.
1000% yes.
The casual white trousers you've been searching for have been found.
As casual as a pair of white trousers can look, they can easily be dressed up for even the most high-brow events, including a Dior runway show, as pictured above. In this look, it's all about the heels and belt. They pull the look together.
Shop:
I have these in an oatmeal color, and the fit is top-tier.
J.Crew's suiting has been on another level since Olympia Gayot became head of women's design there.
These look far more expensive than they are, and that's coming from someone who looks at a lot of white trousers.
This crisp-and-clean look is proof that comfort and style are not mutually exclusive. Throw on a pair of drawstring linen trousers with a matching button-down shirt for the ultimate beachside ensemble. And, of course, don't forget a baseball cap for extra sun protection.
Shop:
Don't wait to buy these. They will absolutely sell out.
The slouch on this pair is perfect.
I keep seeing these on TikTok.
Have you ever seen a cooler or more low-key look? Italian influencer Maja Weyhe mastered this casual-chic combo long ago, and if you had even an ounce of doubt, this all-white outfit should put you over the edge.
Shop:
I'll never say no to a pair of trousers from Reformation.
Is this or is this not the best pair of wide-leg pants? (It is.)
Effortless.
A large tote bag and a simple pair of ballet flats are the perfect finishing touches to an outfit comprised of baggy white trousers and a matching poplin shirt. It's giving no-effort elegance.
Shop:
It's a need, not a want.
Don't sleep on Abercrombie. The brand's having a much warranted moment right now.
If you're looking to splurge on a pair of white trousers, these are hands down the ones to go with. You can own them forever.
If your style errs more on the playful side, this take on Ellie Delphine is the one for you. A lingerie top, some statement sandals, and an eye-catching bag are all you need to take a casual pair of white cargo pants to a whole new level.
Shop:
If they have pockets, I'm 10 times more likely to buy them.
The tie belt really does it for me.
Gorgeous. Beautiful. Stunning.
An outfit like this works well beyond the three months between June and August. These days, wearing white after Labor Day is commonplace. Embrace it and pair your favorite white trousers with a blazer for added chicness.
Shop:
There's something so rich about wearing a white suit.
Yes, these really are only $84.
Simply lovely.
It doesn't get more French than this. The belt, the perfectly tailored trousers, the bread-filled Kelly. From top to bottom, this look is Parisian to its core.
Style these with a bodysuit in a vibrant shade of red, orange, or purple. Trust me, it'll look good.
Shop:
Sale alert.
I don't know about you, but I think I'm going to need to get myself a pair of these.
Summer vacation, meet your perfect outfit. A white linen set, espadrilles, and a great pair of earrings will never be a bad combo for warm-weather travels.
Shop:
Gap's running a seriously good sale right now.
Don't you dare scroll past these beauties.
COS is my go-to for trousers that look like they came from The Row.
This post was published at an earlier date and has been updated.
Coming up next: Kendall Jenner Wore the $22 Underwear With Over 1000 Glowing Reviews
-
J.Crew Is Having an Epic Linen Sale—These 17 Pieces Need to Come Home With MeSummer prep starts now.
-
I'm a Fashion Editor—I Reach For These 2 Pieces When I Don't Know What to WearReady in 10 minutes or less.
-
The Comfortable Pants Fashion People Always Wear Instead of Jeans in the SummerBecause wearing denim in the heat is a crime.
-
The Only 9 Jackets You Need for Spring, According to Fashion PeopleThere's something for everyone.
-
29 Incredibly Chic Tops and Jeans to Mix and Match From Revolve's Epic SaleBring on the cool spring outfits.
-
And Now, 5 Elevated Ways to Wear Your Jeans in 2024Denim devotees, unite.
-
After 5 Days in Aspen, I'm Officially Hooked on Western Pieces—5 I'm Loving RNFrom cowboy hats to fringe accents.
-
I Asked Over 2000 Women Where to Buy the Best White Shirts—They Love These 23Your definitive guide.
