White dresses were pretty much a staple for designers’s Spring 2009 collections. Almost every show featured one or more, mostly of the cocktail dress variety. They were so prevalent, some fashionistas have claimed the little white dress might replace the little black dress this Spring.
It’s hard to argue with how ideal they are for the season. They’re light, optimistic and look great against tanned skin! And, don’t be fooled into thinking white makes you look fat. It all depends on the cut of the dress. Even black dresses, which are supposed to be slimming, can make you look heavier than you are if the cut isn’t flattering.

Runway Inspiration

Like I said, white dresses were in nearly every Spring 2009 show. Here are a few of my favorites.

Shown: Chloe, Lanvin, Stella McCartney, Giorgio Armani (images from style.com)

Celebrity Inspiration

{More celebrities wearing white dresses.}

White Dresses for the Office

Wearing white to the office is totally okay. It’s true that white dresses can look a bit more summery and, incidentally, more casual. So, if you need to look more professional in your workplace, layer a blazer or belt a cardigan over the dress and opt for heels instead of flats. Read more about which shoes to wear below.
The dresses I’ve chosen to spotlight here are more conservative than those in other categories since you’ll want to look respectable at work. Make sure you wear the proper undergarments for all white dresses, but especially for those you wear to work!

Shown: Adrianna Papell Belted Dress, Lauren Shirtdress, Banana Republic Sheath Dress

White Dresses for Going Out

White dresses are fresh, flirty and convey a sense of romantic innocence. Therefore, if you’re wearing a white dress for a night on the town, choose one that shows a bit more skin and a grown-up style.

Shown: BCBG Laser Cut Dress, David Meister One Shoulder Dress, Forever 21 Luster Party Dress

White Dresses for the Weekend

For the weekend, go for a flowy white sundress. It’s perfect for backyard get togethers, Sunday brunches and spa dates with your girlfriends. Since these dresses are usually made of a thinner material, pay special attention to the undergarments you choose.

Shown: Lauren Sundress, Charlotte Russe Lace Dress, Old Navy Tube Dress

Versatile White Dresses

These white dresses can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. They’re everyday, everywhere dresses.

Shown: Banana Republic Sheath Dress, New York & Company Belted Dress, Forever 21 Floral Overlay Dress

How To Wear White Dresses

Like I mentioned before, it’s all about the cut when it comes to white dresses. Find a dress that fits you well and flatters your figure. To dress up or down, add a blazer, a belt at your natural waist or a cardigan. Since white is neutral, you can technically pair it with any other color and be okay. However, there are some colors that work better for this season. Choose bright, bold colors, light brown leathers, lavender and classic black for best results.

Undergarments

White dresses, unless made of a very thick material, are almost always see-through. To avoid distasteful showing of panties and bras, wear undergarments that match your skin tone. And, always wear a slip! Go for a light nude or white slip.

Shoes

Depending on the style, you can wear flats or heels with white dresses. For work wear, choose classic heels in black, light brown, nude or a bold color like navy, pink, red or green. For evening wear, go for a bright, fun or metallic pair of heels. For weekend attire, opt for flat sandals.

Accessorize

A white dress is a blank palette. You can keep the simple elegance of the dress by adding a thin strand of pearls. Or, you can go all out with statement jewelry. Choose monochromatic jewelry for the best pop and contrast. Bright pinks, turquoise, green, yellow and black are all great options. Or go for the metallic look with a gold statement necklace and wide cuff.
Wide belts work best with white dresses, adding another dimension to the dress.

White dresses are pretty much THE dress trend this season. Find one that works for your style and budget and accessorize it, making it appropriate for many different occasions and situations.


What do you think of the white dress trend? Do you agree that the myth about white dresses is incorrect? Let us know what you think!