The Best White Dress

Buying Guide

In the United States, white is the traditional color for brides, but when temperatures warm up, white dresses of all shapes and sizes seem to come out of the woodwork. There are spaghetti-strapped minidresses, short-sleeved midis with billowing sleeves, white maxi dresses and everything in between. These dresses are more versatile than you might think, keep you nice and cool and offer countless options for accessorizing.

When shopping for white dresses, look for quality fabrics that aren’t too clingy. Some materials are thin enough to see through, so check if they are lined; if not, wear nude undergarments, not white. You don’t need to spend much money to get quality fabrics, either. It is a good idea to look for dresses with some stretch to them, though, to keep you nice and comfortable.

Like other colors, white comes in many different shades. In addition to stark white, there are eggshell, ivory, cream and bone colors (to name a few). Although the rules are not set in stone, fair skin tones look good with warmer whites, and cooler white colors complement darker skin tones. You won’t know for sure until you try the dress on, but if you love the fit and not the color, order another shade.

Think about the occasion(s) you want to wear the dress for, as some dresses are very casual, some are dressy, and others fall in between. You can pair a lightweight white tank dress with cute sneakers or heels for different looks or dress down a floor-length white dress with flip flops. Belts and purses can also change up the look.

There are no strict rules for this; you can match these dresses with straw handbags and hats, a bright statement necklace, stilettos or black ankle booties.

• When trying on a white dress, look at yourself in different lighting to determine if it is see-through.
• If the dress hem is too long or short, you can have it altered.
• Remember, undergarments should always match your skin tone, not the color of your clothing.
• Navy blue, blush, gold and animal prints also pair well with white dresses.
• Read the manufacturer label for washing instructions; you have to be extra careful with white garments.