9 Ways to Wear White

Jenny Zhao / May 4, 2015

Not everyone can rock an all white suit and gold shoes like Dante Fowler Jr. did for the 2015 NFL Draft. (Not everyone gets third pick either.) For those among us looking to lighten up their wardrobe, here’s a list of some great white pieces, and how to pull them off.

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Classic Tee

The white tee is the essential item on the list of a man’s essentials because there are endless ways to wear it. And it’s pretty hard to screw up. But, as with all the rest of your clothes, make sure it fits properly.

BOSS Terni Cotton T-Shirt, $105

Blazer

Avoid looking like Colonel Sanders, forgo the notoriously hard to pull off all white suit, and start small with just the blazer. Wear it casually against darker tones, like this one with a lot of navy.

BOSS Jarett Sport Coat, $645

Watch

Looking for the right timepiece to wear to a yacht party? This is it. Nothing says summer quite like a white watch (or even a white watch strap).

Cle De Cartier Watch, $41,300

Jeans

Silence the naysayers who have doubts about white jeans. Bring a sharper edge and dress your white bottoms with a chambray shirt for a polished take on the Canadian classic.

Gucci skinny jeans, $585

Backpack

Sometimes, there’s a lot to carry. Here, a backpack is the answer. While canvas bags are usually the popular choice, leather backpacks can take you from day to night without looking like a lost child.

Juun.J Leather Drawstring Backpack, $1,875

Sneakers

Sneakers have never been trendier, and a pair of all-white, low-cut lace-ups can be worn with anything from jeans to a tailored trouser for a timeless, understated style. Just make sure to keep them clean.

Tiger of Sweden YNGVE Shoe, $230

Shorts

White shorts can dress up your tee or dress down your button-down. Don’t be afraid to be a little more adventurous with prints and patterns on your upper half. Nothing is more neutral than white, so embrace its versatility.

Levi Cut-Off Shorts, $60

Button Down

A crisp white shirt with a classic collar is another way to achieve that effortless look that never seems to go out of style. This short sleeve rendition is best for the warmer weather. Cuff the sleeves for a little extra funk, and to tap into one of this summer’s trend.

Diesel linen shirt, $148

Chinos

For those hard to match summer blazers, white chinos are pretty much a sure bet. You know the ones we’re talking about, hiding in your closet…before you donate them, throw them on with a pair of white chinos and reconsider.

ASOS slim chinos, $36