The Thin Line Between Epic White Jeans & A Fashion Failure

By Brian Maynor

 

White jeans may be all the rage for spring and summer, and while they sound like an easy alternative to blue jeans, they are in fact one of the hardest jeans to pull off. And let me just state for the record that has nothing to do with your size. You can rock white jeans no matter your size.

The most common questions I’ve had pouring in about white jeans are: ‘how to find the right fit’, ‘should they be pristine or distressed’, ‘how much stretch should they have’, and ‘what do I pair with them that balances their starkness’.

Here are my best tips for pulling off white jeans this year that will have you feeling comfortable and on trend:

1.    To stretch or not to stretch. This is mostly a personal preference on how you like to wear your jeans. Personally I like a little give in my jeans just because they are more comfortable to wear for long periods, and since I practically live in jeans this is important to me.

However, you have to be careful how much stretch is in your jeans because the tendency is the longer you wear them the more stretched out they become, so after a few hours you may be playing the hiking game. You know that game; it’s when you’re constantly pulling them up every few seconds. This is not only annoying, but far from attractive, so my best recommendation is to stick with 1-2% stretch, and opt for a slightly snugger fit. Trust me the more you move the more they will give.

2.    Distressed or not. Solid white jeans can make you over self-conscious about thick thighs because there is no hiding them. In fact, solid white often exaggerates your legs, so if you are worried about that opt for a little distressing. It will break up the visual plane.

If you opt for pristine jeans then look for a slightly relaxed, trim fit over a skinny one. The extra drape will serve the same effect of hiding any problem areas; just make sure they are hemmed perfectly. This is really key, because when white jeans don’t fall perfectly in a slight break they look sloppy and the entire look is ruined.

3.    Color-blocking or monochromatic. These are two of the safest and most seasonal ways to style white jeans. If you choose to color-block go with a dark, saturated hue. Navy blue is the traditional color of choice; think nautical inspiration without screaming ‘anchors away’.   This is also helps pull the focus away from your legs and up to your torso, so you don’t have to worry so much about how your legs look.

When it comes to being monochromatic, whether you opt for a breezy white chambray shirt or linen t-shirt, trading in your solid black look for a solid white one is a smart seasonal shift. Now be warned, to pull this off it’s all about minimalism, so no pops of color or attention pulling accessories. Keep everything simple and understated.

If all white is just too much, you can create a similar look with lighter shades and tones.

4.    Pairing the perfect shoes. White jeans will be the statement items of your look, so when it comes to foot wear you want to keep it neutral. Solid shoes in a neutral color are best, whether they are sneakers, oxfords, desert boots or deck shoes. Some of the most popular are black, brown and of course, white to keep the leg line extended.

White jeans look amazing when they are styled properly, but the slightest misstep can make them a fashion fail. Don’t let this fine line put you off from trying them. Simply know that they will need to be altered and every detail matters. Keep playing around with different tops and color combos before you buy them until you find the right balance for your style and comfort zone.

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

 

I am always curious to hear some of your weekend wardrobe dilemmas and challenges. Please send your comments and questions to [email protected]. Also find each of these storyboards at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.

 

About Brian Maynor

Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.

 

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