I can’t say with certainty when exactly this trend started, but I can tell you that it landed on my radar about a month ago, and I’ve been tracking it ever since. From spotting it on my TikTok FYP and Instagram feed to seeing it on my very own stylish co-workers, there’s something about the all-white look paired with black accessories that has taken the fashion set by storm. It truly is the perfect virtually free styling trick for summer. I say free because the chances you have a white top and bottom (or dress), black shoes, and a black bag—bonus points for a belt—are very high, meaning you technically don’t have to buy anything to test it out.
Speaking of testing it out, I did just that prior to writing this story. I opted for my usual combination of jeans and a tee but this time in white. Finishing with a black shoulder bag, suede belt, and ballet flats, I hit the town doing my best to stay clean with two kids in tow. As the headline so plainly put it, I really did feel chic and like I was making the most of my favorite wardrobe basics. To see and shop my look plus eight others that will have you convinced, just keep scrolling.
Photo:
@nicoleakhtarzad
There I am! For a day with my kids, I went the casual route, but I already see this styling trick becoming my go-to for everything, including dressier events, this season.
Good American
Heritage Crewneck Cotton T-Shirt
$39
Rag & Bone
Harlow Relaxed Straight Leg Jeans
$225
Porte & Paire
Bow-Embellished Suede Ballet Flats
$250
Photo:
@kelseymerritt
Next time I opt for this look, I’m definitely adding a white button-down as an additional layer.
Madewell
The Signature Poplin Oversize Button-Up Shirt
$85
Levi’s
501 ’90s Relaxed Straight Leg Jeans
$98
Linea Paolo
Celeste Slingback Pointed Toe Flat
$130
Photo:
@_marisamartins_
Once I get my hands on a silky white maxi dress, it’s over.
Reformation
Joana Silk Dress
$278
Steve Madden
Eydie Ballet Flat
$90
$54
Photo:
@annelauremais
You bet a sweater around the waist (or shoulders) counts as an accessory.
H&M
Ribbed Tank Top
$8
Mango
Crewneck Sweater
$60
SNDYS
Lounge Baha Ribbed Skirt
$55
Photo:
@katcollings
This look is simple, but the quality of her basics makes it a standout moment.
J.Crew
Bungalow Cat Eye Sunglasses
$80
J.Crew
New Favorite Tank Top in Vintage Rib
$35
$18
J.Crew
Classic Belt in Italian Leather
$50
J.Crew
Maritime Tapered Pant in Ripstop Cotton
$128
J.Crew
Suede Thong Sandals
$148
Proof that this styling technique works for the evening too.
Nordstrom
Classic Poplin Shirt
$59
The Frankie Shop
Toni Leather Belt
$84
Nordstrom Signature
Cotton Poplin Skirt
$139
Open Edit
Cammie Slingback Pump
$60
Photo:
@rikkekrefting
It’s the skinny belt for me.
Sir
Celena Ribbed-Knit Maxi Dress
$395
$276
H&M
3-Pack Narrow Belts
$14
Sam Edelman
Meadow Ballet Flat
$130
Photo:
@sasha.mei
This could be a white pajama set, and it would still look elevated thanks to the black bag and flats.
Adidas
Packable Bucket Hat
$36
H&M
Oversized Linen Shirt
$25
H&M
Linen-Blend Pull-On Shorts
$18
Sam Edelman
Michaela Mary Jane Flat
$130
Photo:
@deborabrosa
I’ll be re-creating this exact outfit when I go to Italy next month.
Reformation
Casette Linen Dress
$248
Nordstrom
Double Loop Trouser Belt
$39
Sarto by Franco Sarto
Gia Sandal
$99
Next: I’m a Professional Shopper—These Are the Basics I’ve Told My Friends to Buy
- Explore More:
- black and white
- summer outfit
- Styling Ideas