Even though white is literally an absence of color, there is no absence of style when it comes to summer fashions that feature this bright and breezy tone. From the runways of New York Fashion Week, I have chosen some of the best looks to illustrate my point this week. Wearing white can be tricky at times, but with some modification, there are some sure-fire looks that can work for anyone!  

Lace is not just for getting married anymore! In the fashion world we’re seeing it in tops, dresses, and as an embellishment on almost anything! Including this revealing, yet full-coverage bodysuit. The white wrap-lace dress is a cool summer choice for a formal occasion, or just a dinner on the town. For all out glamour you could find a long-sleeved beaded cocktail dress like this one, which has scalloped detail and subtle shimmer and shine.

Topping our list (pun intended) are an array of wearable tops in shades of white. The zip up tent-like crop top is very modern and would look great with any high-waist shorts or slacks.  The asymmetrical detail on the t-shirt top makes it slightly edgy, and when worn with these black hot pants and leather jacket, it’s a statement for sure. The ¾-sleeved off the shoulder top is also a great option for showing a little skin, but covers problem areas, or just when more modesty is the order of the day. White tops always look good with black separates like the ones here! 

Blouses are always great, but a classic button down in a rich cotton, like the one here, is the right choice for pairing with a floral pattern. A workaday bow blouse gets the rock-and-roll treatment when teamed up with the black mini skirt and trendy shoes.

Menswear goes white very well too! This cotton blazer looks crisp, cool, and stylish. This can complement a dress, or add some flair to a pair of jeans or shorts. If you really feel like a dandy you can go for a literal menswear look by pairing a vest and slacks with a shirt and tie for an Annie Hall moment! For those of you who don’t know, the film Annie Hall led the way for looks like this one when star Diane Keaton wore variations on this look for the role.

On the softer side of white, we see unique monochromatic styling in these two photos. The split-open top and high-waist pants in satin look both classy and casual at the same time. What gives it polish is the luxurious flow of the fabric. Another top and pants combo shows us that unusual details like the flutter sleeves and texture of this pullover and cropped length of the slacks make it modern and classic at the same time.

Dresses and more dresses look so right when they’re done in white! The flirty cutout dress with flouncy hem is very on trend. The white maxi shirt dress with sheer skirt is a winner with the metallic belt added. The white baby-doll sundress is sweet and sassy at the same time. The white strapless hi-lo hem of the dress make it a statement that would work well for making a dramatic entrance at a club, or fashion affair. And, the oversized ruffles on the white cocktail dress exude charm and sophistication.  

Last, but not least let’s look at this wacky white hat! A white hat is a great summer staple, and this one is out of this world with its mushroom cap-like appeal!

Summing up, white for summer is a definite fashion “do.” Make sure when you shop at Goodwill, you read the label for fabric content on any white item you might buy. Caring for white items isn’t hard if you know what’s best to use for the type of cloth it is. I wrote an article about that a while back, click here to check it out.

Have fun this summer exploring your fashion sensibilities, and you’ll never go wrong if you get it white! (Another bad pun, sorry!) Thank you for supporting the Goodwill organization and our mission.