This week’s hero is subject to one very silly rule: “you can only wear white between Memorial Day and Labor Day”. Well, 1) lucky for us that this is the case and 2) also, this rule stinks. As I’ve gotten more comfortable in my own style and care a lot less about what people think, I’ve stretched these white jeans far beyond the constraints of these dates.
White jeans can be AMAZING paired with rich autumn tones for the fall and blacks and grays before spring officially hits. I’ve already made a note to do a white jeans for fall post as I write this.
Why are white jeans so great? The word “crisp” comes to mind. They always look put-together which makes them perfect for summer dinners out, casual Friday, etc. Consider them your summer “safety net”. They are a great balance so that you won’t feel overdressed nor underdressed when you make this call even if you’re not sure what the dress code actually is for an upcoming event.
The trick is making sure they are fitted (best case if they have at least 2% spandex for stretch) and substantial enough so you can’t see through them. My favorite pair (linked below) is from Old Navy in the “rockstar” style. This means mid-rise and plenty of stretch.
These EXACT jeans are on-sale right now for $25 at Old Navy. However, if you miss the sale, they are regularly priced at $34.99. Either way, a STEAL.
Clean and Simple
What’s more classic than black and white? Literally nothing. Imagine pairing this look with a bold red lip? OMG. Yes x100.
One of the biggest concerns I hear about white jeans is “I’m a slob so I can’t wear white jeans”, or “I’m scared I’m going to sit in something”. Which, I totally hear you, but I think about the amount of times in my life that I actually have sat in something. Less than ten at most. You can wear white jeans.
Regardless, this top is longer in the back (a mullet shirt, if you will) so it gives great coverage of my behind. You can sit in confidence knowing you will not look like you’ve soiled yourself.
I used black to dress up the rest of the look as well. I’ve had these Steve Madden tassel heels in my closet for a few years (purchased secondhand) and always forget about them, but they definitely add some fun to a simple outfit.
Paired with a black woven clutch and a black dangle earring to really tie everything together. Side note, I looked everywhere for the second earring before taking these photos. Couldn’t find it so I took it with just one. Found it the next day and put them “somewhere safe”. Went to wear them the other day and have forgotten where “somewhere safe” is. So, story of my life.
High-Low Top: Amazon $19.99, Amazon $17.99, Walmart $15.99
Black Clutch: DSW $24.99
Tassel Heels: Amazon $15.96, Amazon
Black Dangle Earrings: Kohl’s $11.70, JCPenney $10.08
Soft and Romantic
Already loving how sugar, spice and everything nice this next outfit is. Even though this coral color is still bright, it is still in the pastel family. I almost never wear pastels, which looking at this is a huge mistake. Something to be said for a muted tone paired with the stark white that feels so soft and feminine. Plus, the off the shoulder top shows some skin in contrast to covered legs without having to be overtly sexy.
I like that this top is on the flowier side and could be tucked in or left out. Honestly, it’s a toss-up. I did a little of both and half tucked the front and pulled the rest out. This makes your legs look longer, but still relaxed overall.
I went with neutral accessories of a tan and gold purse, nude two-strap heels from Express and long coral earrings to bring it all together.
Coral Off The Shoulder Top: NY&CO $29.9
Tan Heels: Lulus $31, Nine West $89
Tan Crossbody: Target $15, Kohl’s $19.50, Urban Outfitters $24.99
Coral Drop Earrings: NY&CO $13.77
Smart and Chic
One of my favorites of all time, truly. Someone I work with (hey, Ashley!) inspired this look and it was nearly identical: White jeans, white based button-up and some tan details. I remember seeing her and thinking, “I have all the pieces of this outfit!”. So sure enough the following week I gave it a try and told her just how much I love her style!
Is it weird that I feel smart in this outfit? Is it also weird that I feel like someone who owns a 60 ft. yacht in this outfit? It’s sooooooooooo cool and clean and effortless. The top is a linen blend so it maintains some good structure, but still less than a standard oxford. Plus, it’s a little sheer so it feels airy and appropriate for summer temperatures.
There’s that cognac braided belt again that I recently raved about. If I want to dress this up, I could make a few changes. First, I could tie up the shirt so it appears even more fitted. Second, I could swap my flat slide sandals for heels. Boom! This look is instantly ready for a day to night transformation.
Striped Button Down: EXACT top Old Navy $15.00
Cognac Belt: Article and options here
Tan Sandals: EXACT pair: Target $15.99, Target $19.99
There are so many ways to make a white pair of jeans the staple of your summer. Pair it with bright colors or patterns for some extra cheer. However, I would definitely recommend bringing along a tide pen and SOMETHING to cover up with if you do happen to grab something messy to eat. Overall, don’t sike yourself out of this classic.
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