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It’s World Cup 2014! Make like the England team and look hot in cool white

White is this season’s hottest trend and freshest shade.   Despite mixed reviews of the kit, the England team will be glad they are wearing this cool shade under the Brazilian sun.  White is a shade that often denotes new beginnings, it can look incredibly smart (think crisp white shirt or shift dress) and there is something very honest about white. You certainly can’t hide anything in it!  But, don’t let the practicality factor put you off, now is the time to make the most of this fresh shade.

Guidelines for getting your whites right:

The first rule with whites is to make sure they look fresh and white and not yellow or grey.  Washed out whites will instantly let down your look.

  • If you’re wearing white on its own you need to think carefully about your skin tone to make sure you don’t look ‘transparent’.  If you have warmer undertones in your skin you need to wear the warmer, softer whites such as ivory or creams.  Icy white will work against skins with cooler undertones but overall the softer whites work best on most of us.
  • Think about the fabric; different materials create different effects.  If you want to achieve a soft, romantic look then choose pieces in Indian cotton, linen, chiffon, lace or soft knits, for example. If you want to create a bolder look then go for stiffer fabrics such as crisp cotton and tailored pieces. It will also, of course, depend on which fabrics suit your style and your body shape.
  • Your white garment will attract the eye, so think about how and where you wear it. If your hips are your problem area then wear your white jeans with a tunic that covers that part of your body.  If you want to steer attention away from a bigger bust then avoid clingy, translucent or crisp white tops and go for deconstructed draping fabrics.

White can look striking for evening wear, if you can carry it off.  White looks glamorous in silk and satin, taffeta, lace and shimmer such as icy white sequins or paillettes.  However, whilst it will make some look radiant it will make others look washed out so consider the effect it has on your complexion when you hold the garment close to your face.

The white work shirt is a great staple but don’t go for cheap material, go at least mid range if you can. Thin shirts that are almost transparent are distracting and don’t look professional in the work place.

Take care of your whites and they will look good for longer. Make sure you have the right products such as stain remover and the right detergent to maintain your garments and always wash after every wear.

Whichever team you are supporting in the World Cup 2014, enjoy the games and enjoy a stylish summer!

Fiona Wellins

Colour Me Beautiful