Donning the all-white summer look? Follow these easy fashion tips to ace it with style

Malaika Arora’s ivory-hued fit accentuates her curves. Pic courtesy/Aastha Sharma on Instagram

Miranda Priestly may have rolled her eyes at the mention of florals for spring, and we'd imagine she'd have a similar reaction when we mention wearing white in the summer too. That's because the colour has traditionally been synonymous with the warmer months - the colour is said to make you instantly feel fresher, and can evoke feelings of calmness and tranquillity, which most Mumbaikars will appreciate given the soaring temperatures.

Kareena Kapoor Khan dons an all-white ensemble. Pic courtesy/Kareena Kapoor Khan on Instagram

Is it any wonder then that the Bollywood brigade has been embracing every hue of the colour, from Karisma Kapoor's ethereal and yet intricate ivory anarkali set to Kajal Aggarwal's long white cotton dress, embroidered with floral thread-work. Celebrity stylist Mitali Ambekar notes that while white lends an air of effortless elegance, it also comes bearing a list of styling rules.

Is your white right?

To avoid a faux-pas or wardrobe malfunction when wearing white, pick garments that are lined or have built-in slips. This is especially important when picking skirts, pants and dresses. Additionally, wear the garment at home in natural light before stepping out, to check that it isn't see-through or ill-fitting, Ambekar advises. Structured fabrics such as cotton twill, crepe and linen blends offer better shape and coverage. Similarly, heavier cottons, linens and crepes work better for daywear whereas delicate silks are best suited to indoor settings.

Aditya Roy Kapoor's boxy jacket is classic and flattering. Pic courtesy/Mohit Rai on Instagram

"Before you purchase an all-white garment, hold the piece against the light to spot any uneven seams or defects. Also check the stitching carefully as flaws show more prominently on white," she adds. Instead of stark white, explore off-white or ivory tones, which can be more flattering on warmer skin tones. Very tight fits in an all-white outfit can highlight every line and crease - size up when purchasing an all-white fit, says Ambekar. "Timeless cuts over trendy ones work best in an all-white look as simplicity makes white look more elevated. To get more wear from your pick, choose a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down easily.

Bella Hadid layers versatile all-white separates. Pic courtesy/Bella Hadid on Instagram

A seamless fit

Wearing white can be tricky, even if you aren't prone to spills and stains. Ambekar offers a few tips:
>> Wear nude or beige undergarments under white. White underwear can still peek through and create an unwanted contrast
>> Use sweat pads or garment shields, especially in humid weather to avoid sweat patches
>> Avoid coloured accessories that may bleed especially in Mumbai's humidity
>> Elevate an all-white outfit by mixing textures such as lace, linen, embroidery, embossing and other types of self-texture
>> Prevent makeup transfers by dressing after applying your makeup and use a setting spray. Covering your face with a scarf before you pull your outfit on can help too
>> Always carry a stain remover pen to manage sudden spills
>> Use optical brighteners or blue detergents to keep the whites crisp, and never mix them with coloured laundry
>> Pair your all-white look with white or transparent footwear for a clean finish