We have all been there – facing that moment of “I have nothing to wear” even if the closet is full of dresses. But, we all have a savior: a pretty white dress (if you don’t have one, believe me, your wardrobe is missing a staple).
White carries an effortlessly chic vibe and can be empowering and nerve-wracking.
White dresses can be the ultimate weapon for glamorous cocktail parties or breezy summer soirées. However, like any other iconic piece, there are some golden rules to nail your look.
The truth? You feel excited but also get panic. Sometimes, you think, “What if I spill something?” “Will I look too bridal?” or worse – “Is it too basic?”
Let’s check the dos and don’ts of wearing a fashion-forward women’s white dress. Trust me, the color can always help you pull off your look.
When To Wear White?
Is there any rule for “wearing white only in between Memorial Day and Labor Day?” Can you wear white after Labor Day?
The old rule was ”No white after Labor Day”.
But does that rule still apply?
You can wear them year-round for lighter fabrics like cotton and linen, such as dresses, skirts, pants, and shorts.
But it’s better to stick to colder months for heavier fabrics like wool, cashmere, and crepe.
So, you can wear party white outfit all year long, as long as the fabric is suitable for the season.
Summer Parties
You cannot deny that everyone prefers to wear the brightest colors on sunny days. But have you ever thought how elegant it would look to step into a sun-drenched backyard holding a glass of rosé and wearing a beautiful white dress?
You become a focal point—effortlessly glowing and chic. So, whether you are going for a beach bash or a garden soirée, the plus-size white dresses can be a go-to option.
Winter Weddings
Ah, those cozy evenings with candlelight, luxurious velvet decorations, and, of course, you wearing a showstopping white dress. Let’s be real here—short white dresses for winter can make you look great and glamorous.
Just carry a beautiful shawl and wear some bold jewelry, and you will be good to go.
Year-Round White
Well, there is no need to save your white dress just for the summer or winter. White is all about a year-round vibe if you know how to style it perfectly.
There is no wrong time to wear elegant white dresses if it is appropriate for the occasion. All you need to do is match the fabric to the season, and you are all set.
Graduation Ceremonies
The big day is finally here. You have worked hard for it and are now walking across the stage to get your degree. What if you wore a gorgeous white dress that made you feel unstoppable?
Graduation Day makes you feel fresh, bright, and celebratory, so you need to wear a stunning white dress that can make you feel even more confident.
The best part is you will be able to wear it again for the post-ceremony celebrations.
Cocktail Parties
When it comes to cocktail parties, everyone dresses to impress. But wearing long white dresses can make you stand out when you walk at that glamorous cocktail party.
White dresses at cocktail parties are always a good idea. So, go for a midi or floor-length dress by adding some statement earrings or a colorful clutch.
White-Themed Events
White parties have their own set of rules—everyone comes in white. That dress code is exciting and a little intimidating, but it is also so much fun.
How amazing it feels to be there in a white-themed gala or a casual beachside soirée? Plus, if you are wearing a white dress with gold heels, it makes you look a little dramatic.
When Should You Not Wear A White Dress?
You’ve probably heard the saying, “Don’t wear white after Labor Day,” even if you don’t follow fashion rules. But where did this idea come from, and should we still follow it today? Well, it’s not as clear-cut as it seems!
The “no white after Labor Day” rule might have started for practical reasons. Before air conditioning, people wore lighter clothes in the summer to stay cool.
White clothing and lighter fabrics were popular in warm weather, and in winter, people switched to darker colors and heavier fabrics. Since whites were the go-to for summer, the fashion world made this rule official: once Labor Day (the unofficial end of summer) was over, it was time to put away those white clothes.
However, some people think the rule comes from the habits of the early 1900s. In the early 1900s, wealthy people wore light, breezy clothing, like white linen suits and dresses. Wearing white after Labor Day showed that you had the money to go on a vacation and didn’t have to work. It was almost a way of showing off.
Historians also think the rule helped separate the wealthy from the working class. Wealthy people could afford vacations and nice clean clothes, while the working class often wore darker colors to hide the dirt from their hard work.
By the 1950s, the rule of not wearing white after Labor Day was considered a symbol of class and refinement. The wealthy followed it strictly, while those with newly gained wealth, who didn’t always know the rules, were eager to learn and follow this fashion tradition.
Wearing White Do’s and Don’ts
Since light colors, like white, can make you look bigger and dark colors can make you look smaller, wearing white might make you appear larger. But that doesn’t mean you need to avoid it completely. Just use these simple tricks to help balance things out:
DOs:
- Go for a monochromatic look (wearing one color from head to toe) to look slimmer and taller.
- Look for details that create vertical lines on the white, like a long jacket, scarf, or piece of jewelry. Vertical lines draw the eyes up and down, which can make you appear taller and leaner.
- Draw attention to other parts of your body by wearing something that stands out, like a big hat, bold necklace, or striking shoes. This helps take attention away from the areas you want to camouflage.
DON’T:
- Avoid putting dark colors or contrasting colors.
- Don’t wear dresses with embellishments.
How to Wear a White Dress When It’s Not Your Big Day?
There’s one question that often pops up: Can you wear white party dresses to a wedding?
The short answer is no. The only time it’s okay to wear white to a wedding is if the bride specifically asks you to.
Traditionally, guests are advised not to wear white to a wedding, as it’s seen as a color for the bride. While this rule still exists, it can get confusing. For example, can you wear a white dress with a pattern or white accessories?
It’s safest to avoid any white outfits, even with patterns. Brides today are incorporating more colors into their wedding looks, so wearing something too similar to the bride’s dress could be seen as inappropriate.
- Don’t wear white to weddings, but you can wear it on cocktail nights or summer parties.
- Choose the right style, completely different from bridal look.
- Add colors and accessories.
- Keep the dress simple.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you accessorize a white dress?
Accessorizing a white dress adds personality and flair. You can be creative with bold jewelry, colorful shoes, shawls or scarves, and handbags.
What undergarments should I wear with a white dress?
To avoid visible lines or show-through, opt for seamless, skin-toned undergarments. Avoid white or brightly colored underwear, as they can be more noticeable under white fabric.
Does a white dress go well with gold heels?
Yes, a white dress and gold heels make a great combination. Gold heels add a touch of elegance and glamour to any white dress. You can pair it with a dress for a balanced look. Carry a gold clutch or jewelry for a coordinated look.
How do I prevent stains on a white dress?
White fabric is more susceptible to stains. Be cautious with food and beverages, and consider using a stain repellent spray. For maintenance, follow the care instructions on the garment’s label and consider professional cleaning for delicate fabrics.
How can I style a white dress to avoid looking larger?
To create a flattering silhouette, opt for loose, flowy styles like A-line or empire waist dresses. Pairing a white dress with colorful accessories or a belt can also help define the waist and add visual interest.
