Black is the go-to shade for fashionistas. But this season, white rules international runways. It can be tricky to don the luminescent shade without looking drab. Fashion designers and stylists tell Shreyanka Mazumdar how to look chic while following this trend effortlessly
White, Fashion, The little white dress, white shirt, white trousers, sheer shirt, jumpsuit, tee and shorts, fashion runways
Reams of newsprint have been spent extolling the wondrous effects of the colour black when worn right. This is one hue that never lets you down. But last year, white dominated the international runways including the London Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2015 held in September 2014 and Mercedes Benz Fashion festival in Australia last October. Celebrities such as Kylie Minogue, Vanessa Hudgens, Angelina Jolie and Naomi Watts have donned the luminescent shade at movie premieres, charity events and even on the red carpet. It’s time you step up and follow this trend. We tell you how:
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The little white dress:
It won’t be wrong to presume that every fashionista has the Little Black Dress (LBD) in her closet. It’s a classic that holds you in good stead whether it’s a romantic evening with that special someone, a night out with your pals or a red carpet event. But let’s face it — it’s also a tad passé. It’s time to experiment. How about a Little White Dress (LWD)? It can be feminine, edgy yet elegant depending on the cut, style and of course, the fabric. Fashion stylist Pernia Qureshi suggests, “Whether it’s monochrome, printed or sheer, winter is the perfect time to wear clothes as white as snow. It never fails to make one look effortlessly stylish and beautiful,” she says.
A well-tailored dress in a flattering fabric paired with the right accessories (read delicate) will make you the cynosure of all eyes. However, it’s important to bear in mind that white doesn’t have a slimming effect like black. So if you wish to camouflage a part of your figure, opt for ruffles, pleats or peplum. Since the accessories are minimal, opt for flirty make-up such as winged eyes and bright lips. For a de-glam daytime look, opt for a nude look that includes minimal make-up. A lot more emphasis is laid on the eyes where you use a mascara, eyeliner for the upper lid and a light kajal for your water line and complete the look with a nude lipstick.
White shirt and trousers:
If the words ‘all-white shirt and trouser combo’ conjure up images of yesteryear Bollywood actor Jeetendra in your mind, it’s time you get a reality check. Today, a white pantsuit makes for a refreshingly distinct style statement. Complete the look with bright accessories. “White to me is timeless elegance. Layer it with sparkly accessories such as a long necklace, danglers or a metallic clutch to add zing to its ethereal aura with effortless élan,” advises ace fashion designer Manish Arora.
For a more casual look, opt for a pair of slouchy trousers or wide-legged pants and a snug white shirt in cotton or lightweight linen. Break the over-all look with a neon or tan belt. Alternatively, you could also wear brown boots with white skinny jeans to break the drab effect. A black fedora hat would be a perfect add-on for the day. “A white denim is a great purchase. Club it with a pastel crop top or a nice dressy tunic. For an evening look, you could club it with a corset top. Throw on a white blazer for a classy look,” suggests Dimple Nahar, the founder of 2divine, a luxury fashion and jewellery boutique in Mumbai.
Sheer shirt:
Play peek-a-boo while showing just the right amount of skin in sheer, the magic fabric that smoothly glides over your body. Sheer shirts are best worn loose with a fitted pair of skinny jeans or trousers. A basic white sheer top can be styled to create a range of different looks. “One can team a solid-coloured sheer blouse with a colourful spaghetti beneath. Alternatively you could wear a stylish bra-let or a crop top underneath for a bolder look. When layering over the top, pair a white sheer chemise with a blazer for some structure or a knit sweater for warmth during winter,” says designer Sonakshi Raaj.
Jumpsuit:
The white jumpsuit is a versatile outfit that lends itself well to every occasion. Whether it’s brunch, a movie date or a party with your closest pals, this is one ensemble that can make you look trendy effortlessly. Last month, Hollywood actor Emma Watson became the talk of the town in a Misha Nonoo white jumpsuit at the 2014 British Fashion Awards. She ditched the accessories but completed the look with bright reds lips. A hint in the form of a black blazer or a jacket wouldn’t hurt if you aren’t quite sure of a white-out look. “Soft printed black and white geometric printed jumpsuits with a sheer back panel works great for a lunch or dinner date. They are very comfortable to wear and accentuate the body making one look gracefully feminine,” says Raaj. Paint your lips in bright red, slip into black stilettos (or tan brogues, depending on the occasion) and put on those vintage sunnies. Complete the look with a quirky backpack or a sling bag.