White jeans epitomise summer just as much as a generous swirl of ice cream or a hasty dollop of sun cream, but the even slightly spillage-prone may want to sit this one out.
Leaving absolutely zero margin for error, they're not for the fainthearted, but what they lack in practicality, they more than make up for in chic summery vibes.
© GettyWe're rarely slavish to traditional fashion rules, but there is something fresh and optimistic about white denim that lends itself perfectly to the warmer months.
Because of their stark colouring, white jeans can be tricky to master. Colour palette stalwarts such as navy, camel, and black all work well, but equally, a pop of neon via a playful accessory can help inject a white jeans outfit with a sense of fun.
Patterns containing white are great, especially crisp geometrics, but don't go wild – stick to a maximum of four shades so things remain unfussy.
Nostalgic preppy types favour cricket sweaters tied around the neck and sockless loafers, but in terms of white jeans' sartorial capabilities, this is only the tip of the iceberg. Mid-rise baggy styles work well with barely-there sandals and a fitted top – think either a silk scarf worn as a bandeau or a ribbed tank.
For a more casual feel, slouchy tees and chunky sneakers with a relaxed-fit pair will do the trick, as will knotted slides and a flattering crop top alongside rips and turn-up detailing. Maintaining pristine condition is key for maximum impact – if you're hesitant, opt for an off-white or a fresh cream (marginally more forgiving) and keep the oxi powder on standby.
H! Fashion shares the best ways to style white jeans this season:
© GettyWith a semi-sheer top...
Super baggy leg silhouettes, adored by the street style set at the moment, work beautifully with a slim, pointed heel peeking out underneath. Dial up the drama with a metallic sleeveless top, a semi-sheer fabric always feels sexy and fresh, and textured outerwear for a dose of party energy.
© GettyWith light-wash denim...
Who said double denim had lost its edge? If head-to-toe in one hue feels dated, consider switching up your colour palette. This look, combining a classic light-wash blue alongside a pop of white, is simple, yet effective. Plus, the clean line of the straight-leg jeans alongside the slingback silhouette is immeasurably chic.
© GettyWith a slew of gold jewellery...
There's something about crisp white and twinkling gold jewels that just work, as so effortlessly proved by Xenia Adonts at Paris Fashion Week earlier this year. Style your jean silhouette with a t-shirt or cami top and layer on the gold jewellery for an elevated ensemble.
© GettyWith a striped shirt...
If you're someone who loves the French-girl aesthetic then this one is for you. White jeans look amazing with almost anything but they look ultra-chic with a button-up ironed shirt, either worn open with a tank top or French tucked into the waistband.
© GettyWith a boxy leather jacket...
Monochrome dressing is never out of style, especially when complemented by the hottest hue of the season: punchy red. Relaxed-fit jeans work seamlessly with chunky, heavy-duty loafers, and boxy leather outerwear gives this look a cool, slightly lived-in edge.
© GettyWith a motorcycle jacket...
The scarf-style strapless top is a bona fide summer classic, and this piece simply oozes cool-girl appeal, layered under a high-impact motorcycle jacket. For daytime smart-casual, style belted white jeans with minimalist black sandals.
© GettyWith a belted blazer...
Get some extra wear out of your earthy-toned outerwear by styling it up for the summer. Fresh flashes of white and warm-hued jewellery extend the wearability of this chocolate brown blazer.
© GettyWith an elongated silhouette...
If you're looking to lengthen your shape, consider high-waisted white jeans with seams running down the centre of each leg. It gives the effect of elongation, especially if they happen to align with a top featuring princess seams.
© GettyWith an understated boat neckline...
Devout minimalists will relish this foolproof, easy-to-recreate outfit formula. Simply layer a boat-neck vest or sleeveless bodysuit under straight-cut white jeans, add a luxe-looking belt and sleek black accessories, et voilà.
