White hot

IF you’ve overdosed on bright colour, zingy neons and bold prints so far this summer, make a clean break with white.

The coolest shade of the season is the ideal tonic for the heatwave months. “There is something very fresh and honest about white,” says Fiona Wellins of Colour Me Beautiful (colourmebeautfiul.co.uk). “Don’t let the practicality factor put you off.

Now is the time to invest in white as it will feature right through high summer into autumn/winter.”

White can be daunting if your wardrobe is packed with dark colours. The key to wearing it with confidence is all about getting the right combination for you. “Whiteon- white is the look for this season, but not everyone can carry it off,” Wellins warns. “If you’re wearing all-white, 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, Wellins recommends wearing softer off-whites, like ivory or creams. Starker, icy whites will work against skins with cooler undertones. To make your white less intense, add a pop of colour. Stick to one hue, like a primary bright, and pare back your accessories to work a minimalist look. For a softer vibe, try mixing your white with other pale neutrals, like grey or beige.

If you’re looking for an afterdark look, bling up your whites with shine or embellishment.

“Look to silk, lace or icy sequins,” Wellins suggests.

“Teaming with silver (for cool skin tones) or gold (for warm skin tones) is the easiest way to glam up your whites.”

And the instant way to transform a dress or trousers this summer? Wear white shoes. The hottest colour in footwear extends from flat pool sliders, through to glam, strappy heeled sandals.

The more coverage on the foot, the bigger the statement, so try a pair of pointed white courts for a show-stopping look that will also elongate your legs.