White Hot

Summer keeps cool in classic look

Whoever said white should not be worn after Labour Day was very wrong. This summer, white is everywhere: camisoles, pants, tanks, and blouses, and the trend promises to dominate throughout the fall season. White makes every outfit instantly look city-sophisticated, and is a refreshing alternative to black.
A white camisole or tank is an easy way to add a modern touch to your wardrobe. Ralph Lauren's collection features a beautiful slim-fitting cable-knit tank. Its soft, cotton texture makes the piece very comfortable, but also very chic. Criss-cross detailing makes the tank unique, but not overstated. For a sexy look, check out Dynamite's classic yet trendy asymmetrical tank. Its satin bow adds a touch of retro Hollywood glamour as well as sweet femininity. Other pretty tanks and camisoles can be found at Buffalo by David Bitton and by DKNY. For more casual styles, check out American Eagle and Old Navy. These pieces look great paired with low-rise jeans, or dressed up with a skirt or fitted black pants for the office or for a night out on the town.
Another great look is a classic white shirt. However, this season's styles are far from the starchy, ill-fitted number that was my high school uniform. White shirts have great cuts that accentuate a woman's unique shape, making it a must-have item to add a classic flair to any outfit. American Eagle Outfitters features a traditional -yet sheer- button down shirt that looks very chic yet casual when paired with jeans. Their collection also has a cute cotton jersey peasant top. Donna Karan's wrap shirt is a simple yet feminine piece that flatters all figures. DKNY Jeans Juniors features a beautiful cotton gauze handkerchief blouse that creates an exquisite frame. A good rule of thumb when shopping for shirts is to try them on. It may sound obvious, but a lot of shirts look great when pinned to perfection on the mannequin and can be a total disaster when you try them on for the first time at home on your way out. To save yourself the headache, try on a few different styles to figure out what works best for you. Stay away from boxy styles, which can make petite figures look shapeless and add unnecessary bulk to a fuller figure.
As for white pants, lots of styles and textures abound. Old Navy has a pair of great cotton denim capris, which is a great alternative to blue denim. Dynamite also has a pair of terrific canvas cargo paints that add a touch of military style when paired with a tee without forsaking femininity.
For more white looks, look for sexy miniskirts at Tommy Jeans and Dynamite. White peasant-inspired dresses are also perfect for evening functions during the summer, and through to the fall. White is also great for handbags and sandals.
To add some colour to a white outfit, pair the pieces with floral prints, denim, or camel. Another great way to add a punch of colour is pair a white top with a beautiful flower brooch. Viola Blanca has a magnificent clematis brooch that speaks volumes of elegant glamour. Bijoux Kimmy features fun, offbeat floral metal brooches. Accessorizing with colourful handbags and simple yet elegant jewelry, particularly silver, is another way to add some dimension to a white outfit.
Incorporating these summery pieces with your fall wardrobe is simple. Pair white tanks and camisoles with cardigans, hoodies and zip-front sweaters. White bottoms look great with a chunky turtleneck and cord jacket. Blouses can be worn under blazers and can be used as a layer of extra warmth underneath a cotton knit v-neck sweater.

Publication Date: 2003-08-03
Story Location: http://tandemnews.com/viewstory.php?storyid=3004