Stylish All-White Outfits to Wear in Summer

Posted by Sebrina Pilcher on Thursday, May 2, 2024

As much as we love experimenting with bright, bold hues come summer, there's something to be said of a classic head-to-toe white outfit. In a way, an all-white color palette is just as head-turning as one that features hot pink or tomato red. The best part? Summer white ensembles are incredibly versatile and come off as effortlessly elevated — even if they're nothing more than a simple button-down and shorts pairing. Whether due to party dress codes or needing breathable fabric to combat the dog days of summer, you can't go wrong with this timeless monochrome look. 

To help you with your wardrobe this season, we've rounded up 15 stylish ways to wear white. From matching sets that satisfy fashion minimalists to layered looks for every mood and occasion, there are myriad ways to pull off this vibe.

Spanning the casual to cocktail spectrum, keep scrolling for 15 white outfits for summer that are bound to earn you major compliments.

Summer Suit

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This summer, trade in your stuffy suit for a stylish cape variety. Not only will this light and airy uniform keep you cool when temperatures climb, but it will also have you looking like a powerful fashion exec.

Slip Dress

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Slip dresses have taken center stage. Not only are they elegant, but they are made cooler when you mix 'em up with layers and accessories.

Vest as Top

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Vests have become a summer wardrobe essential. Wear yours sans shirt and pair it with your bottoms of choice — a miniskirt, maxiskirt, or something in between.

Day-to-Night Jumpsuit

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If you're interested in the fastest way to get ready in the morning (while still looking put together), reach for a jumpsuit. White denim is cool and fresh, and gives off that lived-in je ne sais quoi vibe. Accessorize with heels and chunky jewelry to juxtapose the relaxed fit.

Silky Separates

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You never have to think too hard about what you're wearing with easy, breezy matching separates. You can tuck the top in for a more polished aesthetic or leave a few buttons undone for a laid-back vibe.

Easy Layers

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This classic combo will never go out of style. Break up the white jeans and tucked white tee with a black belt and gold chain. Top the tee with a relaxed button-down, and don't forget to add cool shades and architectural sandals to transform it from soccer mom to Hamptons-ready.

Wide-Leg Pants

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You couldn't hide from wide-leg pants if you try, and in lightweight linen, they are a summer staple. A comfortable fit with a flattering silhouette is all you could ever want for warm-temp dressing.

When it comes to wide-leg pants, find a nicely tailored, trouser-like pair (otherwise, they will give beach-cover-up vibes). Balance the wider proportion on the bottom with a fitted top.

Athleisure

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Who knew that nothing more than an all-white color palette could instantly upgrade your standard sweatsuit? Metallic footwear doesn't hurt either.

Look for Lace

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Airy lace is essential for summer, and we love the proportion of long sleeves and a short hemline. We call this business on top and party on the bottom. And yes, flip-flops are totally acceptable as footwear.

Tonal Coordination

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A fitted jersey top and a midiskirt are simple yet statement-making. When selecting separates, the color doesn't have to match perfectly (think: cousins, not necessarily twins). Finish your look with heeled boots or, even better, platforms with socks.

Bermuda Shorts

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Bermuda shorts are seeing a resurgence. Style your pair with a bra top and blazer (a.k.a. bracket) for a fresh take — and don't overlook your footwear. To elongate the leg, consider pointy-toe pumps or heels minus the ankle strap.

Dress and Boots

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If you thought it was time to pack away your tall white boots for storage, think again. A perfectly coordinating dress over slouchy boots is the summertime set you never knew you needed. It's a great way to reinvent your standard white dress outfit.

A Cotton Classic

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You can't go through summer without a classic cotton poplin dress. From a puff sleeve to tie straps or cutout details, the possibilities are endless. It's the equivalent of a classic white button-down — but make it summer.

Combine Textures

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One way to add interest to an all-white outfit is to seek texture and accessories. This works best for all the non-minimalists out there who still love an all-white dress code. Lace, crochet, and eyelet are all fun details to consider, but don't stop there. Bold accessories, like statement shades or jumbo seashell necklaces, complement any tonal texture.

Lean Into Contrasts

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A simple white frock can be worn on repeat all summer long. Dress it up for cocktails or down for weekend wear, depending on how you accessorize — we're partial to Dad sneakers, in case you were wondering.

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