Brian Maynor December 12, 2013

December 11, 2013
By Brian Maynor
December 12,
 2013


 
Everyone knows you shouldn’t wear white after Labor Day unless it is winter white and fortunately for us winter white is one of the hottest trends this year.  So what exactly qualifies as winter white?

Winter white is white that has been tinted with yellow, making it a warmer, creamier color.  There are so many shade variations of white, off-white; vintage white; eggshell, etc. really any tone that is tinted warmer than a pure white will work.  Here are two inspiration looks using the trend, and yes, guys can wear winter white too: 

1.    Shift Dress.  One of the most basic cuts this mid-sleeve dress is perfect for the office or a party.  Because the dress is a no-frills cut the quality of the fabric is crucial.  It needs to lay and hang perfectly.  One of the best ways to ensure this is to opt for a dress with a lining, or you can wear a slip or shapewear. 

2.    Overcoat. 
Being a huge fan of texture, faux furs are a great way to add depth to you outfit.  Because the material is muddled you bring in a range of colors that break up the palette just enough to keep it interesting while still maintaining the theme of the outfit.  With this coat the belt and buttons relate back to the dress while adding construction elements defining the waist and creating vertical movement.

3.    Pants.  These are really the standout element to this outfit.  Winter white pants can be a bit intimidating, but these are a heavy cotton chino so treat them like every other colored chino you own.  Just like white jeans however, you have to commit to wearing them.  If you are the least bit self conscious they will break your outfit instead of make it.

4.    Sweater.  This cashmere cable knit has flecks of grey to bridge the palette and provide some texture.  The shade is not exactly the same as the pant, but close enough so that the theme is consistent without being matchy-matchy.

5.    Accessories.  The oversized jeweled necklace works perfectly with the dress to add sparkle and festive note.  Because the rest of the outfit is simple you need one item to really stand out.  While it was still in the winter white color palette I grounded both outfits with black.

Wearing an all white outfit may not sound appealing when you hear it, but when it is done correctly it looks amazing.  While most of the winter white looks that walked the runway for Fall 2013 were entire outfits, the trend is not ‘all or nothing.’  Get your feet wet by breaking the color into pieces or ground it with accessories. 

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

 
 
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Click on the images below to learn more about the outfit.
 
 
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I am always curious to hear from you and what you see in the workplace.  Send your questions, comments and pet peeves to [email protected].   Also find each of these storyboards athttp://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 contrib
utor 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