White on time

We like to save white clothing for special occasions – for brides, christenings, boy bands on the beach – and usually it’s reserved for the star players of these events alone.

However, for this spring and summer, white goes mainstream, which means we can all have a go. This is excellent news, but does cause some problems for those of us without valets or ladies’ maids to call upon in case of mishaps, mucky children or enthusiastic pets. It pays to keep handy some dry cleaning wipes, although frankly there is a limit to the damage these can limit, if you see what I mean – red wine sauce with turmeric tends to stay put.

On to this season’s white looks. Layering and texture are key to many white all-over outfits, so keep the overall appeal light with panels in lace, chiffon and gauzy fabrics.

Alexander Wang showed long-sleeve white tunics with bands of see-through panels, while Emilio Pucci layered chiffons from head to toe, from cropped lace-work jackets to long flowing ankle-length skirts.

Victoria Beckham, meanwhile, showed body-con white pencil skirts with transaparent white shirt over a bandage effect crossover bodice, and Carolina Herrera sent down the catwalk balloon-sleeve, tabard tops in sheeny, filmy, printed ivory, over flirty same-fabric skirts – such a variety of styles and all of them in white.

In general, it’s a minimalist and graphic white trend, yet one often characterised by much texture, in terms of lace, brocade, cutwork, embroidery and embellishment.

For special occasions, look up images from the Oscar de la Renta spring/summer 2013 show and check out the exquisite lace Fifties’ style dresses with deep border lace hems and scallop-edge short jackets over, teamed with dove grey pointed shoes and tiny clutch. However, take care with wearing to weddings as this sort of look would be perfect for brides of all ages, and guests should take care not to choose a look so white and lacy that they are mistaken for the bride herself.

That said, it is increasingly difficult to work out what on earth to wear to weddings, other than those where the bride is guaranteed to wear a long, white number. I think we all have to be fairly easy-going on the matter – if a bride chooses to wear a pink maxi dress, she ought to be prepared for the possibility that one of the guests will also do so, with maxis still being in fashion. The same now goes for short and white, certainly this season, so bear it in mind.

A simple white tunic top or dress over white slim cropped trousers or leggings is a clean and minimalist look that is perfect for the season, although add heels and a statement necklace to avoid confusion with any passing beauty salon staff. If white is too harsh for your skin tone, a pale shell pink or oatmeal scarf will warm it up.

Twitter: @yorkshirefashQ