White suits have a reputation for being daring yet versatile. Whether you’re aiming for a casual summer look, a polished business appearance, or a chic evening ensemble, white suits offer endless possibilities. Let’s dive into some of the best ways to style a white suit for different occasions, incorporating various accessories, patterns, and color pairings that will make you stand out.
Basic white suit combinations
1. Classic Monochrome: All-White Look
One of the boldest and most sophisticated ways to wear a white suit is by going all-white. This monochrome look exudes confidence and modern style, perfect for formal events or chic summer gatherings.
How to Style:
– For Men: Pair a slim-fit white suit with a white dress shirt and matching white leather loafers. Add a white belt for a seamless look. A subtle silver watch can add just the right amount of understated elegance.
– For Women: A white tailored blazer with white wide-leg trousers looks effortlessly chic. Complete the outfit with white heels or flats and delicate silver jewelry for a minimalist finish.
Pro Tip: Keep your fabrics in mind. Lightweight linen or cotton suits work well for casual daytime events, while a silk or satin finish is perfect for a sleek evening look.
2. Contrasting Colors: Black and White
The timeless black-and-white combination always works, especially when you want to balance the brightness of the white suit with a more grounded, classic color.
How to Style:
– For Men: Wear a white suit with a black dress shirt or turtleneck for an edgy, modern vibe. Add black leather shoes and a slim black tie or pocket square to tie the look together.
– For Women: A black silk blouse underneath a white suit jacket creates a stunning contrast. Complete the outfit with black pointed-toe heels and a black clutch for a polished, formal look.
Pro Tip: If you want to make the black and white pairing more interesting, try experimenting with different textures. For example, pair a black velvet top with a crisp white suit for added depth.
3. Casual Chic: White Suit with Denim
For a more laid-back, stylish vibe, pairing your white suit with denim is a great option. It adds a touch of casual flair to your otherwise formal attire.
How to Style:
– For Men: Pair your white blazer with a light denim shirt and dark-wash jeans. This combination works best when you keep your accessories simple—think brown loafers or desert boots for a relaxed yet put-together look.
– For Women: A fitted white blazer over a denim button-down or chambray shirt paired with skinny jeans can create a casual yet polished outfit. Complete the look with ankle boots or sneakers for an everyday chic appeal.
Pro Tip: Mixing formal and casual elements gives you an edge. If you’re opting for jeans, make sure they’re slim or tailored to maintain the outfit’s balance.
4. Bold Colors: White Suit with Bright Accents
Inject some personality into your white suit by pairing it with bold, bright colors. This works particularly well for less formal occasions where you want to make a statement.
How to Style:
– For Men: A white suit with a bright-colored shirt, like cobalt blue or burgundy, can create a striking look. Complement this with matching accessories, such as a tie or pocket square in the same hue.
– For Women: Add a pop of color with a bold blouse in vibrant shades like emerald green, fuchsia, or mustard yellow. Pair it with matching colored heels or a statement bag to keep the look cohesive.
Pro Tip: When working with bold colors, it’s important to maintain a balance. Stick to one or two bright elements to avoid overwhelming the ensemble.
5. Patterns and Prints: Striped or Floral Accents
Patterns can add interest to your white suit outfit without overpowering the look. Whether it’s stripes, florals, or geometric prints, this is an easy way to make a white suit more playful.
How to Style:
– For Men: A pinstriped shirt or tie can add a subtle yet stylish twist to a white suit. Pairing with brown or tan shoes and a matching belt helps break up the formality while maintaining class.
– For Women: Opt for a floral blouse or printed scarf to layer under your white blazer. Statement accessories, such as patterned heels or a printed clutch, can enhance the overall look.
Pro Tip: Stick to muted patterns if you’re wearing a white suit to a formal event. If it’s a more casual setting, feel free to experiment with bolder prints.
6. Tonal Layers: Shades of Neutrals
Tonal dressing is a sophisticated way to wear a white suit by layering it with different shades of neutrals like beige, grey, or cream.
How to Style:
– For Men: A beige or light grey shirt under a white suit can create a refined, modern look. Complete it with brown loafers and a leather belt in a similar shade.
– For Women: Pair your white suit with a cream or taupe blouse, and add nude heels for a subtle, elegant finish. This neutral palette works well for professional settings or elegant daytime events.
Pro Tip: Tonal dressing is all about creating a cohesive look with different shades. Stick to soft, muted tones for a sophisticated yet approachable style.
7. Accessorizing a White Suit
The accessories you choose can transform your white suit from simple to stunning. Whether you want to add some glamour or keep things minimal, the right accessories make all the difference.
Key Accessories:
– For Men:
– Watches: A silver or gold watch adds a touch of elegance.
– Pocket Squares: Use these to introduce a subtle splash of color or pattern.
– Shoes: Brown, black, or white leather shoes can all work, depending on the occasion.
– For Women:
– Jewelry: Delicate necklaces or statement earrings can enhance your outfit without overwhelming it.
– Bags: A structured clutch or crossbody bag in a neutral tone or bold color can elevate your look.
– Shoes: White, black, nude, or even brightly colored heels work depending on the overall tone of your outfit.
Final Thoughts on Styling White Suits
White suits are incredibly versatile and can be styled in numerous ways to fit a variety of occasions. Whether you’re going for a full monochrome look or adding vibrant accents, the key is to wear it with confidence. From business meetings to casual outings, white suits offer a clean slate for you to showcase your personal style.
FAQ
1. Is a white suit appropriate for a wedding?
Yes, white suits can be appropriate for weddings, especially for summer or beach ceremonies. Just be mindful of the dress code and avoid wearing white if you’re attending someone else’s wedding, as it’s traditionally reserved for the bride.
2. What is the best season to wear a white suit?
White suits are particularly popular in spring and summer due to their light, airy feel. However, with the right accessories and fabric choices, they can also be styled for fall and winter events.
3. How can I keep my white suit clean?
White suits require extra care. Dry cleaning is often the best option for maintaining their pristine look, but you can also spot-clean minor stains with a gentle detergent and water mixture. Avoid eating messy foods while wearing a white suit!