Styling White Denim For Winter

White is an intimidating color to wear, and for some reason, I think it’s particularly tricky in the winter months. Maybe it’s the old “no white after Labor Day” rule that makes white feel off-limits in winter, but that seems silly to me because white is the color of winter. Here are a few outfit ideas to help you embrace white, specifically white denim, in winter.

Cool Girl Cozy

I love an oversized cozy sweater and adding a little edge to an outfit. This was the first look that came to mind when I was thinking about how I could style my white jeans for the colder months and I think it’s a classic.

The combat boots help balance the oversized sweater while the white shirt peeking out from the sweater ties the whole outfit together and brings a sense of polish to the overall look.

This should work with any color sweater, bonus points for one with a fun pattern. The key style elements are oversized but balanced, modern proportions, and the play between a relaxed but polished aesthetic.

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Make a Statement 

There is nothing wrong with a simple and chic outfit, but I love a good statement shirt. A bold patterned shirt can break up the monotony of neutral-colored knits that often rule winter fashion.

You can go for a full or french tuck, it just depends on how your shirt drapes and if you want a polished or relaxed feel to your look. The cut and fabric of your shirt will make a difference. A silky shirt like this one will drape well, but if it’s a slim cut you might want to keep it tucked in because it may not hit in the right places.

If you are worried about being cold, layer your shirt over a thin turtleneck. The main thing is to break out of the sweater rut and wear something unexpected, playful, or adventurous.

These jeans are a more relaxed fit and I think that rolling the pant hem to give them a tapered silhouette helps take the outfit in a polished direction without losing a sense of ease It’s what I love about this kind of pant cuff, it’s the kind of dressy casual I to capture in my personal style.

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Dressing Up Denim

Want to be cute and comfortable for date night? White jeans (or black jeans) are more elevated than your average denim and can rise to the occasion if styled correctly. Once again, I’ve cuffed pants to keep them just above the ankle and tapered, elongating my legs.

Since this is a date night look, I went for a more formal, fitted blazer. I’m a heels girl, but a nice ballet flat would have been cute here too.

The tank top and clutch are VERY old and I’ve linked newer options below, but I would also wear a lace body suit with this turn up the date night vibes.

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The All-White Outfit

I think all-white looks are SO chic, but they can be boring if you don’t play with texture, patterns, proportions, or silhouettes. 

I was feeling pretty casual so I opted for this cropped, knit cardigan I got on super sale and my new Keds. I love how the open-knit pattern gives this look just a hint of sex appeal. You could also turn it around so the buttons run down your back. It’s a cute way to get more wear out of your cardigans.

This cardigan is sold out but I’m linking to another option below that works with these style tips.

I’m keeping the pant hems rolled up to show a little ankle again. It’s a good way to keep the bottom of the pants clean. Not sure what to do to keep white sneakers clean. Send me your tips!

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Not So Neutral

I embraced tan and camel tones about two years ago and appreciate how they keep my winter wardrobe from getting too dark. BUT, I love color and think that little pops of it can really help lift your mood when it’s cold and dark out.

I am adding color through this plaid jacket I picked up a few years ago. It’s a nice nod to color that works well with the otherwise neutral color palate. I’ll try to find something similar to link below.

If you don’t have an awesome, multi-color plaid blazer in your closet, you could go with a colorful top instead. OR, go for a blazer in a colored neutral like green or burgundy. Just keep the rest of the outfit white and tan.

I’d avoid black because it would make the contrast too harsh and we want something softer for this look.

I’d wear this to the office or out for weekend errands…yes, I do dress like this to get groceries. I’m weird like that. But it’s a great look and it makes me happy.

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