White in summer. It’s a classic move – clean, fresh, and effortlessly cool. But let’s be honest: pulling off white without looking like you’re headed to a yacht party or a wedding in Ibiza takes a little finesse.
The good news?
When done right, white can elevate your entire summer wardrobe. Whether you’re sipping cold brew at a rooftop bar or strolling through the city heat, here’s how to make white (and its stylish cousins) your best friend this season.
Don’t Fear the White Pant
Let’s start with what scares most men: white trousers.
Yes, they require a bit of care, but they also deliver major style points. Think tailored white chinos, cropped at the ankle, paired with a loose navy polo shirt or a textured short-sleeve shirt. The contrast is sharp and summer appropriate.
Style tip: Go for a slim (not skinny) fit and look for heavier cotton or denim blends so you don’t feel like you’re wearing hospital scrubs.
Embrace Off-White and Cream Tones
If bright white feels a bit too crisp or clinical for your taste, here’s your secret weapon: off-white. Cream, bone, stone – these shades add depth and warmth, especially for men who want a more lived-in, natural look.
Pair an off-white tee with olive shorts or tan linen trousers for an earthy palette that still looks summer ready. Or try a cream overshirt layered over a white tee and light-wash jeans for a tonal outfit that’s low-effort and high-impact.
Style tip: Off-white plays particularly well with sun-kissed skin, so it’s a great choice later in the season when you’ve picked up some colour.
Go Tonal for a Sleek Summer Look
Speaking of tones, tonal dressing is your shortcut to looking like you know exactly what you’re doing (even if you’re just dressing for brunch). A monochrome white or beige look, done right, is effortlessly chic.
Start with white linen trousers or shorts, pair with a soft beige shirt, and finish with sand-coloured espadrilles or white sneakers. You’re not trying to match perfectly; the key is to layer similar tones for a cohesive, relaxed outfit.
Style tip: Texture is everything here. Mix linen, cotton, and canvas to break up the look and avoid feeling flat.
Rock the White Linen Shirt
It’s the cornerstone of every good summer wardrobe: stay on the lookout for the white linen shirt. Airy, breathable, and just structured enough to avoid looking sloppy, this piece is a must-have.
Wear it open over a tank or tee, button it up and roll the sleeves, or throw it on with swim trunks for beach-to-bar versatility. Bonus points for slight wrinkles; it’s linen, after all, and the relaxed look is part of the charm.
Style tip: Look for slightly thicker linen blends if you’re going for a smart-casual vibe. The see-through look belongs on the beach, not at dinner.
Footwear That Complements White
White clothing works best when it’s supported by the right footwear. White trainers are a no-brainer due to being timeless, versatile, and clean. But don’t sleep on brown leather sandals, espadrilles, or suede loafers in tan or beige. These neutral tones ground the brightness of white without clashing.
Style tip: Steer clear of black shoes with all-white outfits—they can feel too stark and formal. Summer is all about soft tones and easy transitions.
Accessorise With Intention
Keep accessories minimal. A woven belt, a canvas tote, or a lightweight straw hat adds interest without overwhelming the look. If you’re wearing a mostly white outfit, a touch of silver or gold in your watch or sunglasses frame can elevate the entire ensemble.
Style tip: Think Mediterranean vacation vibes – light, stylish, and never overdone.
Less Flash, More Finesse
White doesn’t have to be bold to make a statement. It’s about clarity, confidence, and knowing how to balance brightness with texture, tone, and simplicity.
Whether you’re new to the world of white or already a summer-style aficionado, embracing this clean palette can take your warm-weather wardrobe to new levels of sophistication.
This summer, skip the black tee and reach for the white one instead. Trust us, your style (and your sweat glands) will thank you.
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