How to wear white pants and jeans
Not sure if you can pull off the look? Follow these 7 tips on how to wear white pants and jeans stylishly and confidently
There is something so chic about white pants. From a nice wide leg à la Kendal Jenner to a clean white trouser pantsuit-style like Gigi Hadid, it’s no mistaking that white pants and jeans can be a powerful look – if you know how to wear them right. The reality is that they can be a bit tricky and not as forgiving as their more popular cousin (looking at you, black pants).
Though white pants and jeans may be a bit fussier, don’t let it deter you from rocking this show-stopping look. Here are some tips to keep in mind.
1. Size up
When it comes to white pants and jeans, you want to avoid any bulges or, ahem, the dreaded camel toe – which while might be less visible when wearing a skinny black jean, is unfortunately not so forgiving when it comes to white bottoms. So size up to hide any lumps and bumps – what you want is a streamlined, clean look.
2. Fabric choice
The number one worry about wearing white pants and jeans is that it might be see-through. Sizing up on your pants can help, as does choosing a higher quality, thicker fabric, which can also hide any lumps on the thicker parts of the body (read: thighs and bottoms). A high thread count is a sign of better quality fabric – brands that invest in high-quality fabric will often share those details on the product label. As a general rule when buying white denim, anything under 12 ounces is considered lightweight and may be an indication of lower quality.
3. Best fit
Go for a silhouette that you know already flatters your body type – high-waist, mid-waist, skinny, wide, or anything in between. If you already know that a certain brand usually compliments your body type, that would be a great first place to search for your perfect white pants.
4. Pockets
Front pockets add bulk. Pick pants with faux pockets, none, or ask your tailor to cut them out – which is fairly inexpensive to do.
5. Consider a longer top
If you’re concerned a white pant or jean might not be flattering around your bottom or upper thighs, try wearing a longer top that reaches your hip bone or mid-thigh – it helps create the illusion of being thinner through the hips and thighs.
6. Add a third layer
Adding a third layer, such as hip-length or longer blazer, vest or cardigan, adds more interest to your outfit while taking attention away from a bottom half that might be bigger. It’s an easy figure-flattering technique.
7. Neutral-coloured shoes
Pairing your white pants or jeans with a neutral-coloured shoe will instantly make you look longer and leaner. Try white, metallic, silver, gold, rose gold, grey, blush, or skin tones.