There’s something about winter white outfits that makes them feel infinitely more chic than other monochrome ensembles. Maybe it’s the warm, off-white hue itself, or maybe it’s the fact that they require a certain amount of finesse to keep looking sharp (step away from the red wine and coffee, dears). Whatever the reason, we’re looking to brighten our cold-weather wardrobes with these 16 fun styling tips for the best ways to wear winter white now through the start of spring.
16 Winter White Outfits to Brighten Your Cold Weather Wardrobe
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Published Jan 24, 2023
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How to Mix Different Shades of White Like a Pro
You may worry that wearing multiple shades of the same color will look sloppy or unintentional if they aren’t an exact match. But there’s no need to stress over which shades of white work best together (really, who has the time for such specifics?) if you embrace these small style hacks. First, when in doubt opt for pieces with noticeable textures. Sequins, fringe or interesting knits have more depth than a smooth white fabric, making it less obvious when colors don’t match. Second, if you’re unsure if two hues are either too similar to one another or too different, swap one for something more clearly distinct. Broadening the difference between shades—by picking a stark white leather and a creamy soft cashmere, for example—makes your choice look intentional and won’t leave you re-examining your outfit in any new lighting situation. But really, the key is just to pick pieces you love and feel comfortable in. So without further ado, read on for all the winter white outfit inspiration a gal could ever need.
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1. Play with Textures
The easiest way to rock head-to-toe winter white? Textures. As mentioned above, mixing ribbed knits over shimmering silks or a fleece zip-up atop tweed pants is a great way to add depth to a monochrome ‘fit.
Shop similar styles: Mango Turtleneck Sweater ($60); Rails Berlin Skirt ($188); Sam Edelman Hazel Heels ($140)
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2. You Can Never Go Wrong with a Suit
If you do want to sport a fulling matching ensemble, we highly suggest investing in a chic white suit. Whether you pair it with other sleek off-white pieces, like the turtleneck and mules above, or opt to mix in some brighter hues, you’ll be glad you have the option to mix and match in so many different ways.
Shop similar styles: Shashi River Earrings ($96); Banana Republic Lio Blazer ($230) and Lido Straight-Leg Pants ($150); Uniqlo Heattech Fleece Turtleneck ($25); Journee Collection Akza Mules ($65; $45)
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3. Play with Proportions
Adding multiple shapes and silhouettes to your outfit is a great way to avoid looking shapeless, an unfortunate risk when it comes to monochrome ensembles. Try a cropped jacket with flared jeans or an oversize knit with slim-fit leggings for a much more interesting overall effect.
Shop similar styles: Anthropologie Nico Faux-Leather Blazer ($198); Levi’s Dad Utility Jeans ($108); Free People Sienna Ankle Boots ($198)
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4. Stick to Pants in Looser Silhouettes
Super-tight white skinny jeans rarely look as good as their blue-wash or black counterparts, which is why we much prefer a straight leg, boyfriend or even wide-leg silhouette instead. Plus, now you don’t have to worry about your pockets showing through at the waist (a perpetual issue with most white skinny jeans).
Shop similar styles: Gigi Pip Monroe Hat ($131); Forever 21 Reverse Fleece Jacket ($45; $27); & Other Stories Wrap Cardigan ($69); Agolde ‘90s Pinch Waist Jeans ($178); Looks Like Spring Aspen Ankle Boots ($239; $147)
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5. Opt for Metallic Accessories
Winter white and silver are a match made in sartorial heaven and will make your outfit look even more luxe as they play off one another. But don’t fret if you’re more of a gold gal, as basically any metallic hue will lend a gorgeous icy vibe to your look that’s sure to elicit tons of compliments.
Shop similar styles: LOFT Jeweled Button V-Neck Cardigan ($58); Tory Burch Kira Chevron Crossbody Bag ($398); LPA Carlotta Pants ($218)
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6. Try a One-and-Done Jumpsuit
When in doubt, you can always toss on a winter white jumpsuit and pair it with simple, classic pieces like pointy-toe booties, a top-handle mini bag or hoop earrings.
Shop similar styles: Buck Mason Baja Twill Studio Jumpsuit ($198); BP Cat Eye Sunglasses ($15); By Far Mini Ami Bag ($570; $171); Naturalizer Havana Pointed Toe Flats ($100)
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7. Throw a Subtle Print Into the Mix
For those who aren’t so into the totally monochrome look, try adding a low-key print or pattern to you outfit. We’re talking miniature polka dots, thin stripes or maybe even tiny floral buds just for a touch of something different.
Shop similar styles: Rag & Bone Wool Half-Zip Sweater ($650; $365); Clare V. Grande Fanny Pack ($385); Lattelier Polka-Dot Pleated Skirt ($110; $55); Mango Heel-Zipped Boots ($80)
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8. Accessorize with Beige Accents
If you’re worried an all-white ensemble will wash you out, try adding a few touches of warm beige or light brown by way of some knee-high boots, a leather belt or a cardigan.
Shop similar styles: Reformation Elke Cotton Cardigan ($148); ADAY Something Borrowed Dress ($195); B-Low the Belt Ryder Belt ($132); Seychelles Itinerary Knee-High Boots ($249)
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9. Don’t Be Too Fussy About Matching Exactly
Yes, a perfect set of winter white pieces will look beautiful, but so too will a mix of varying shades. The key is to pick hues that are different enough to look purposefully mismatched rather than just a shade or two off. P.S. Adding in a print or something with texture (like snakeskin boots or a cableknit sweater) can also help pull your various whites together.
Shop similar styles: The Hat Depot Bucket Hat ($14); ASOS Trench Coat ($220; $121); Alex Mill Camil Cable Sweater ($185); Abercrombie & Fith Satin Maxi Skirt ($70); Schutz Maryana Boots ($238)
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10. Try Some Trendy Layering Pieces
Sweater vests have officially transitioned from trendy option to wardrobe staple, so if you haven’t already embraced Chandler Bing’s signature piece, you might want to try it in 2023. Plus, a winter white option is sleek, easy to pair and feels more grown up than some of the more eclectic styles on the market right now.
Shop similar styles: Rails Alexis Sweater Vest ($218; $153); J.Crew Relaxed-Fit Button-Up Shirt ($98; $65); Reformation Mason Pants ($178); Veja Urca Sneakers ($185)
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11. Go for Double the Denim
Another easy outfit go-to? Denim on denim. For winter white jeans, we prefer a looser leg (like a boyfriend jean), which often look better with a cropped or slim-fit jacket up top. But feel free to play around with different proportions to find the combo that works best for your body type.
Shop similar styles: IRO Mylene Cropped Jacket ($295); Enza Costa Tank Top ($95); Agolde Lana Straight-Leg Jeans ($178); Sam Edelman Garret Boots ($180; $99)
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12. Make a Statement with Black Accessories
Is there any color combo more iconic than black and white? Crisp winter whites look even more luxe when worn next to inky black accessories, like tall black boots, a quilted shoulder bag or even a pair of simple black Ray-Bans.
Shop similar styles: Gentle Herd Cashmere Sweater ($269) and Cashmere Skirt ($248); Quay After Hours Sunglasses ($75); JW Pei Maze Bag ($129); Schutz Maryana Boots ($238)
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13. Don’t Forget Your Outerwear
Your winter white favorite will look even better layered under a matching winter white coat for double the impact.
Shop similar styles: Commense Double-Breasted Overcoat ($124; $99); Amanat Penelope Blouse ($148); Madewell Mid-Rise Perfect Vintage Jeans ($128); Dr. Martens 1460 Boots ($170)
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14. Or Go in the Opposite Direction
On the other hand, white coats are not the easiest pieces to keep clean (we’re not about to run to the dry cleaners every week all winter long). A long black or navy coat can give you the fun of a bold reveal, plus give you a little more peace of mind when looking for a seat on the bus that won’t leave a mystery mark on your beloved white teddy coat.
Shop similar styles: Boden Long Belted Coat ($298; $239); Pangaia 365 Sweatshirt ($145) and 365 Sweatpants ($135); New Balance 5740 Sneakers ($100)
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15. Consider Winter White Jewelry Too
You know what would look lovely next to your winter white slip dress? A matching pearl necklace. Or earrings, or bracelets, or any other style you prefer. Adding a touch of white in an unexpected place is a fun way to play around with the color that doesn’t require adding more layers of bulky wool or jackets.
Shop similar styles: Poppy Finch Pearl Necklace ($350); Favorite Daughter Break-Up Blazer ($298; $233); BHLDN Satin Midi Dress ($168); ON Cloudnova Sneakers ($160)
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16. Go All in and Eschew Anything Not on Theme
Skip the metallic jewelry, black booties and colorful handbag and try for a fully, truly all-white ensemble. The effect will be incredibly chic and very posh, two things we never mind embracing to the fullest.
Shop similar styles: Steve Madden Saide Sherpa Jacket ($139); ASOS High-Neck Sweater ($40); J.Crew Kate Pants ($98); Schutz Mikki Boots ($168)
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