I waffled on what to call this post. When we took these photos and as I write this post, it’s still winter. But I’ll be wearing this white jeans outfit formula into early spring for sure. So I could have just as easily titled it a “Modern White Jeans Outfit for Winter.” Semantics really! All that to say, if you’re chomping at the bit to wear your white jeans...let ‘er loose! Yesterday I wore this chic modern white jeans outfit to church, and if you’re ready to wear your white denim, I say go for it. Here’s how…
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At the end of summer I always put my white denim away. The old rules about wearing white only between Easter or Memorial Day (depending on your tradition) and Labor Day are out the window. Really. You absolutely can wear white jeans and pants anytime you want and look very in the know. But I generally just enjoy the novelty of them more in the warmer months.
That said, when I got these new white pintuck flare jeans from Talbots I knew I didn’t want to wait too long to wear them. They’re a nice thickness, so not only do they keep me pleasantly warm, but they also don’t show lumps, bumps and bulges that white jeans and pants sometimes accentuate. They run nicely TTS; I’m wearing a misses 8.
Here are my style tips for wearing white jeans in the cooler months. (By the way, I definitely would not wear this outfit on a snowy or messy winter day. But it was sunny and dry on this particular winter day. So they felt perfectly appropriate.)
Tip #1 – Wear full length white jeans in a modern silhouette.
What’s a modern jeans silhouette? Straight leg, wide leg, flare leg or trouser jeans would certainly qualify as a contemporary cut. Wearing a modern silhouette makes you look more like you know what you’re doing. Ha! And half of the equation is confidence, when it comes to looking stylish. While there truly is no fashion police, I’m sure there are still people out there who will question your fashion knowledge if you show up in white jeans before summer. But make your entrance rocking a modern silhouette and that helps put their speculations to rest. (If they still question your fashion intelligence, you just have to let that go…like the confident, well-adjusted woman you are.)
Tip #2 – Create a white jeans outfit in the contrast in intensity that works best for you.
I’ve talked extensively about contrast in intensity in this blog post and this one, as well as this YouTube video. The bottom line is that you want to put together an ensemble of garments and accessories that mimics the contrast in intensity that you have in your features: eyes, skin and hair. So if you have high contrast between the intensity of those three features, then you’ll look your best in outfits with high contrast, too. Think white jeans, vibrant colored tee and coordinating bright blazer, shown below.
But if you, like me, have low contrast in intensity between those three features you’ll look great in an outfit that is low contrast in intensity, such as the one I wore here. Plus, I just love the softness of oatmeal beige paired with white.
Other nice low-contrast-in-intensity pairings would include those white jeans with soft grey, light taupe, a pale pastel or light camel.
Tip #3 – Add texture to create a “warmer” appearance to the outfit.
I think one of the reasons white jeans or pants or skirts don’t look right to our eyes in the colder months is that we’re used to seeing them paired with summer-weight fabrics like seersucker, linen and lightweight cotton. So help the eyes out by adding a little bulk and texture to the cool day outfit.
Note that my sweater adds texture, but it’s a cotton sweater. So you can certainly still wear a wool or cashmere sweater with your white jeans if you’d like. But a cotton or linen sweater is generally my option of choice come spring. I love my Jenni Kayne cotton fisherman sweater and have worn it for at least three years now. The quality is outstanding. And just through February 14, you can use code VALENTINE at checkout for 20% off at Jenni Kayne. But I also have a similar cotton fisherman sweater from Quince at a more economical price.
Tip #4 – Add appropriate footwear for cooler days, but in a color that works with your white denim outfit.
Again, we’re used to wearing and seeing white denim with sandals and sneakers. But you absolutely can wear your winter boots and booties with white jeans. Here I’ve worn my sand suede booties I got in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale this past summer. They work nicely for this low contrast in intensity outfit, but if you’re wearing a high contrast outfit you could opt for black or another deeper tone. And depending on your climate and day, you could opt for loafers, pumps or sneakers, too. I’ve gathered some nice low intensity options in the shopping widget below because they’re a little harder to find right now. Oh, and metallics are a nice option, too.
Tip #5 – Add outerwear as needed that works nicely with your white denim outfit.
Pairing your white denim with your winter coats can present a challenge. But that’s why I often begin thinking through my outfit by first choosing my coat. Of course, if you know you want to wear your white jeans, you’ll need to begin there. But then think about the coat.
I chose to wear my trench coat because this lined jacket was sufficient for the weather of the day and the birch color works nicely with my oatmeal colored cotton sweater. But other great options could include grey, ivory or camel coats for a low contrast in intensity, or black, navy or other colors for a higher contrast in intensity.
Tip #6 – Add a silk scarf to layer on just a touch of warmth and a splash of color.
To add just a splash of soft color and a little warmth for the commute, I wore my Sarah Flint X Gracie Tropics silk scarf (more economical options) tied loosely around my neck. I actually intended to remove it when I reached my destination, but ended up wearing it.
If you like, you can certainly tie your scarf in more creative ways. But since one of my style angles (see this blog post for more info) is effortless, I like to wear my scarves very casually with minimal fuss.
I still generally prefer to save my white denim for spring and summer, and then I wear it very frequently. But modern white jeans for early spring can be just the ticket to brighten your day. So don’t hesitate to add a new pair of white denim to your closet and begin enjoying them now. I’ve included a few other modern white jeans in the shopping widget below.
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Thanks so much for stopping in for a little style inspiration. As we’re fast approaching spring now I’m looking for outfit requests for you, my readers. If you have types of events you’ll be attending or places you’ll be going for which you need outfit inspiration, please let me know in the comments section below. I’m more prone to select those recommendations that would speak to a wider group of women, so think along those lines. For instance, do you need inspiration for what to wear this spring to a recital, graduation, women’s tea, book club, weekend retreat, etc.? Tell me just a little about the event and the tone of outfit you’re looking for. Maybe I’ll turn your recommendation into a blog post or video!
Blessed for My Day
As we approach Valentine’s Day I always think it’s fun to focus on the topic of love. We flippantly say we love pizza, rainy days and our spouse, all in one conversation. But most of us know that none of our affections measure up to the love shown to us by our Creator. God so loved us that He reached across the chasm caused by our sin to pursue a restored relationship with us through the death of His only Son on a cruel and painful cross. He paid a price we could not pay for a debt He did not owe so that we could call Him Father and rest in the assurance of His faithful love. And every day He looks to His Son and remembers that debt has been paid once and for all…while we continue to do and say things that miss the mark. That is love.
But God’s love shouldn’t just awe us; it should also inspire us. Hopefully as we reflect on the love with which God has pursued us and remained faithful to us, we will feel compelled to love others with that same kind of grace and faithfulness and generosity. Let’s ask the Lord to create in us a heart like His, one that will patiently and kindly love the people in our lives so that they can better see Him in us.
Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful… ~ 1 Corinthians 13:4-5
Hi Kay,
How about a class reunion?
Thank you.
I am a woman who must wear petite sizes, but only because of sleeve and leg lengths. I am not a true petite in any other way. My frustration is finding any kind of jeans, lately, that are short enough. Despite what the size tag says, they are too long. I haven’t shrunk and can’t wear a heeled boot. How do I solve this dilemma?
Hi Mary Lee. A few things. First you can look for petite jeans of course. I know that Talbots, Ann Taylor, Loft and others do have petite jeans. In addition, some of the major premium denim brands have started carrying petites, such as Frame and Mother. They seem to work really well for the petite influencers I follow. The next step is alterations. I know that seems extreme for some women, but I’ve heard from petites that it is in fact the only way to make sure your clothes fit as they should. And if you are someone who will wear your jeans or pants frequently, having them altered will help you enjoy them more and wear them more, thus resulting in better cost per wear. Another option, honestly, is to cut the jeans off. A raw edge hemline is still very on trend. Use a good pair of sewing shears and measure well so that you don’t make a mistake you regret later. But this little “trend” can be a lifesaver when it comes to getting your jeans to the right length. And then a final option is to look for shoes that are still comfortable, but do indeed have a little height. They don’t have to be a high heeled boot or pump. YOu can even find sneakers and sandals with a platform lift. And one more thing, be sure to check the measurements on the jeans when shopping online. Most stores will give you the inseam of the jeans in the fit information. Use that to make the wisest choices. I hope those ideas help.
I have the same issue. Democracy jeans come in petite/short length and Old Navy actually has pretty nice petite/short jeans that were recommended in an Oprah post of top 10 jeans for older ladies. Nordstrom also has Wit and Wisdom jeans in petite/short length which are made by Democracy jeans.
Hi, Mary Lee and Linda —
I am not petite, but proportionately I have a long torso. This post reminds me that Nordstrom offers free alternations, I believe up to $200 in value per year, to cardholders, and this includes shopping at the Rack. I was very pleased to have an alterations person hem my jeans to just the right length as part of my Rack shopping. I have also taken a tuck in jean legs above the hem, so that you keep the finished machine stitched hem, and just take up an inch or whatever in length by folding and stitching just above the hemline. It is not noticeable at all. If you have a sewing machine, give it a try.
My 50th high school class reunion is in August in Georgia. The main event is a banquet and business casual attire is suggested. I am also interesting in attending a couple of the satellite events which I think will offer more opportunity to visit with people who are not seated at my table. One of these is at night and the other is at noon, and both will be casual. What do you suggest?
Love these white pin tuck jeans from Talbots. I ordered these all ready and they are nice quality but run long. I need to take them to my tailor this week to have them hemmed. This often happens to me, as I am 5’3″ and cannot wear petites. They don’t fit in the rise. Really enjoyed the BFMD.
I love how we’re all unique! I’m 5’4″ and have very long legs. I need a petite for the rise and a tall for the leg length! I agree that it’s frustrating.
Yes, we are all indeed unique. I have a very long torso and short legs, so cannot wear petites. Know your frustration also.
I really like how your scarf connects with the bright white jeans. I really struggle with optic white due to my coloring and contrast level. For some reason white shorts work fine for me especially if my legs are tanned. The jeans you feature are really special especially with the stitched seam at the front. So elegant!
Can you do a post with some updated sneakers and shoes for spring and summer?
Love your capsule wardrobe selections for travel…suggestions for airplane travel.
Thank you for the BFMD. I always enjoy reading your posts and learn something new every time!
Thank you for all,of your hard work!
Hi Kay-
Like Sue and Carroll, I have a class reunion weekend coming up in June! I know we all want to look our best after not seeing many of these people for years. We will have a Friday happy hour, Saturday morning tour of the high school, Saturday night gathering at a golf club, and Sunday morning outdoor brunch. Any and all ideas appreciated!
1. I’d like recommendations for a high school graduation ceremony that will be indoors. It will be hot outside by then but may be cool inside.
2. As someone else mentioned, shoe, sandal, and sneaker trends for spring and summer.
3. You mentioned in an earlier blog or video that fine jewelry was trending. That is about all I have (thanks to a generous husband). How does one incorporate fine jewelry and make it look modern? I have pieces from the 1980’s (think gold chain bracelets and necklaces) as well as items like a tennis bracelet and diamond solitaires. I want to wear these items but still look modern.
I wasn’t sure what “fine” jewelry referred to. You seem to think it means non-costume jewelry. I was wondering also if that’s what it meant or if “fine” refers to more dainty jewelry (whether costume pieces or not.) If I had to guess it might be the latter. I wear costume and genuine interchangeably and do stick to more dainty pieces as a rule.
Colette, I’m sorry for the confusion. I’m referring to non-costume jewelry.
Do you have any recommendations for what to wear for a warm-weather day with grandkids at the amusement park? I want to be hands-free to be able to hold their little hands and likely carry their prizes. Thank you.
Very chic and put together. The boots, sweater and trench make it a winter outfit. Can’t wait to see how you style the white jeans for summer!
I will be going to San Antonio in late April for the Festival of Lights. (My granddaughter’s high school band is marching in the Saturday parade.) We will fly in on Thursday, midday and leave early Sunday. I want to only use a carry on. Suggestions for a capsule wardrobe please.
Good morning Kay,
The white jeans outfit in your post today, has to be one of your best looks! Simple, stylish elegance.
Hi Kay,
Your post today was great. I loved all of your tips. I feel inspired to wear my white (actually cream, ha, ha) jeans more often during the cold weather. Like you, I wear white jeans most often during the warmer months.
I would love to see tips on how to wear dresses and skirts during the winter without freezing. Don’t get me wrong – I love trousers and jeans. But, I believe in dressing to show off one’s best features. One of my best features is my legs. I suspect that legs are many women’s best feature. Out legs below the knee are one of the parts of our bodies that age very well. I think my legs look just as good at age 69 as they did at age 29. I bet that is true for many of us!
When I was a lot younger I could comfortably wear dresses and skirts all year round. We were expected to have hose on our legs even during the heat of summer; then one day the fashion police said that hose were a no-no. I have gotten used to going bare legged during the warm months, but I cannot abide it during the colder times of year. I find that sheer nude hose do not keep me warm enough. I think they look fine, no matter what the fashion police say, but they aren’t warm. I have purchased a couple of pairs of fleece-lined tights in “nude”. They do keep me warmer, but I have not yet achieved either a look or feel that I truly love. One pair of tights is a pale beige that looks like no one’s skin, ha, ha. However, I think they look okay when I wear them with my pale beige, faux suede, lug-sole ankle booties. The colors are almost identical. There is no fleece in the foot part of these tights so there is a line of demarcation where the fleece starts just above the ankle. It’s not a deal breaker, but I wish the line weren’t there. The tights tend to pull on my toes as the day goes on causing pain in my Morton’s neuromas. That frequently makes me think twice about wearing them. Because of the neuroma issue I bought a different pair of fleece lined tights that have a convertible foot. Their color is a darker beige; again, no one would think it is my actual skin color, but they are a more pleasing color to my eye. Their big problem is that the foot part of the tights will not stay under my foot. They ride up to my ankle within a short while of putting them on. It’s not so bad when I am wearing boots, but the problem makes them impossible to wear with shoes.
I would love to know if you or any of your readers have found any beige tights that are warm and are a decent color. I do not like to wear black tights, which seems to be most women’s default. I wear a lot warm, tomato reds, golden yellows, bright rusts, Kelly greens, hazel (olive) greens, and warm camels. I have very few pieces that I feel would go well with black tights. The color is just too heavy for me.
Boot camp graduation in Oklahoma in July. It will be very hot, but I want to look nice. A lot of people show up in the worst wrinkled and cut-off clothes. Last time I went to boot camp in July, I wore a comfortable Ruby Road dress and sandals with no accessories. I still have both, but I don’t want to wear the same thing seven years later because of photos.
I also have a 50th high school reunion coming up in August! There will be some informal day events as well as a Friday night Happy Hour. I’ll be traveling from California to New York for the occasion so packing light is a necessity.
I just received white jeans that I ordered and have been debating when it would be appropriate to start wearing them, so your post is very timely for me. I appreciate your tips on how to style them now!
You look great in that outfit! I love the white paired with sand/oatmeal and the contrasting colorful scarf! You’ve inspired me to find some sand colored shoes since I just purchased white jeans for spring. The bright green top and blazer are gorgeous too! Thank you for the inspiration!
Kay, I don’t need inspiration for specific days but for summer days in general….I have most of my needs filled for winter but summer is more difficult as you age….I really don’t want to show it off anymore…it’s just not that pretty…but would love inspiration for some variety not just the same old tee and cropped pants…. trying to cover it up and stay cool …help…
We are in the middle of mud season here. I would love to be wearing white jeans! And yesterday I wore a black ski parka to church. I think I need to move! But I appreciate your inspiration. I need to remember these ideas for a couple months from now.
Hello Kay,
I love wearing white jeans all styles!
I’m on the hunt for a dress for a bridal shower the first week in March in MN. A dress for a baby showe mid April in Chicago. And a dress for baby shower mid April in MN. Both baby showers are for my daughter and son-in-law, it’s a girl! Which will be grand baby #3 for us! 3 grands under 2, which is why we bought a secon home in MN. Our primary home is in Alabama. It’s been a busy year for us but love every minute of it!
As always thank you for your inspiration. XO
You look so sharp in the outfit. I loved your YouTube video last week. I watched it yesterday. I don’t have any special events coming up to dress up.
I am so happy to have found your blog just under a year ago now. We have similar styles and I have loved Talbots in particular for many years.
My spring style question is what to wear to church for Easter Sunday and also a spring women’s ministry conference, also held at our church. Late March-April in Michigan (so likely cooler spring weather). I would say the usual attire is elevated casual. Jeans are acceptable if they are dressier like the white ones in this post.
Hello Kay –
My son and daughter-in-law are expecting their first child. I be attending a couple baby showers in May/June and would like some suggestions on what to wear.
I would like ideas for touring Germany and Austria for 2 weeks in June, mostly touristy days there. Thx!
This was a well written block and I appreciate your work.
Something I didn’t think of when I wrote to you on the email is that I have a pair of white velvet jeans from Talbots from years ago and they’re still in good shape! So I’m going to try this out using your ideas for winter because the vet is warm and it has a warm feel to it! Thought I’d mention that in case other people have some velvet white velvet jeans they could put on in the spring time.
Have a wonderful week.
Love the white jeans, but I could never wear such light colors. It seems like the white showed every little stain and spot. We live in Germany and we have lots of messy weather here so it just doesn‘t work.
By the way, all those spring colors you showed us a few weeks ago are likewise here in the stores…vibrant greens, lilac, pastel blues, etc. Unfortunately, I am an ”autumn“ and can‘t wear those colors at all…hopefully more peach tones will show up! Thank you!
Hi Kay Loved your Modern White Jeans Outfit , so fresh and Springlike just what is needed after dreary days of Winter. Absolutely loved the Oatmeal textured sweater snd Sand Booties , love your fresh green scarf too ❤️As Im Low Contrast too thats the colour I would choose to wear 100% , also like you say grey compliments white too , I wear a Soft Dove Grey with mine . The other colour I love to wear with white jeans is a very Soft Nude Pink Top and my accessories in summer with that are Nude Sandals/Bag/Belt or a very light Tan . Loved your Devotional today ❤️
Hi there Mary Lee , Kay is so right shop at Petites always carry a tape measure and make friends with a good Seamstress . Im petite and if I can’t get what I need I sometimes as well as shortening , need shoulders taken in and waist as well as jacket lengths!!!. The Best compliment I had recently was from a lovely lady I worked with and still see at the various Do’s etc and she said “Kym all of your clothes fit you so well and perfectly , where do you get them from ? Im petite and everything I buy is too long , hangs off me ! What’s your secret”, I did tell her . And to me yes it adds extra expense to a garment but like Kay says work out the cost per wear 👍🏻. Hope this helps
I am going to a business conference ( 3 days) to be held in Nashville in late March this year. It is casual for sessions and one formal event at night. I’d like to incorporate a pair of cowboy boots for the sessions for the day . Any suggestions for the formal event? I’m packing in a carryon ….
I so enjoy your blog. and I would so love to jump right into the lovely outfits you share. BUT. . . oval gal here! Would you consider featuring spring styles for each body type? I just came across your 2019 blog featuring fall styles for the oval shape, and it was so enlightening. It would be fun to see what fresh spring styles are out there for each of us by shape.
Our family vacations together. My husband and I, our 4 children and their spouses, plus our 5 grandchildren spend a week at a lake house.. My husband and I wake up earlier than most everyone else. Our children send the grandkids our way when they start to wake up-which we love. I don’t know what to wear in the common space at this time of day. I don’t want to be “dressed for my day” this early but what kind of pajamas/loungewear is suitable for everyone to see?