For me, white jeans and trousers are an absolute summer staple. I know some women worry about how unforgiving they can be, not to mention the practicality of keeping them clean but, trust me, they really can become your go-to summer bottoms and are so versatile and easy to style. It’s all about getting the right fabric and fit.

First and foremost, go for a substantial fabric. Anything flimsy will reveal not only your underwear but also any cellulite. Flesh coloured seam-free knickers are also a must. Ideally, your trouser fabric should be machine washable because, yes, white bottoms will get grubby quite quickly BUT it’s often easier to spot clean a white fabric than a coloured one. When it comes to

There are so many styles to choose from nowadays from skinnies, to flares, bootcuts and wide-legs that there really is a style to suit everyone. Here’s my guide as to which styles should work for you, and how to wear them.

Your shape

If you have full hips in comparison to your waist, you may find that the waistband on trousers and jeans tends to gape at the back. In that case, some Lycra/elastane content in the fabric will help. You may also find that side pockets don’t lie flat and therefore add unwanted bulk just where you don’t need it. If this is the case for you, a simple solution is to stitch the pockets shut.

Wide-leg trousers are very on-trend and can work well for a few different body shapes. They can disguise chunky thighs and also help balance out your top half if you have broad shoulders in relation to your hips. Worn skimming the ground they can make your legs look longer, particularly if you wear heels.  If you’re petite though, don’t go ultra wide.

Women who carry their weight on their tummy often have relatively long, slim legs. If this is the case for you, slim leg trousers will be particularly flattering, especially if worn with longer length tunics that skim over the tummy area. If you find it difficult to find a waistband that isn’t uncomfortably tight, consider trying maternity trousers. They will provide a much better fit not only on the tummy but will also be less baggy around the hips and thighs and, worn with a longer top, nobody need know your secret.

Leg length

The longer your legs, the more choice you have when it comes to trouser styles. Those with long legs generally look good in crops (particularly if they have slim ankles), wide-legs and flares. For those with shorter legs, wearing full length trousers in slimmer leg styles or a slight bootcut will be most fkattering.  If you have short legs and want to wear crops, teaming them with nude coloured heels will help elongate the look of the legs. For a more casual look, flip flops can also make your legs look longer due to the V shape thong.

Leg length also tends to determine the type of “rise” (waist band to crotch length) that will work best for you. Generally speaking, if you have long legs, you’re best in trousers with a lowish rise, whereas those with short legs generally look better with a higher rise. If you’ve got a big tummy or muffin-top though, jeans with a high rise can be a good option regardless of leg length as denim can have a wonderfully corset-like effect! If you’ve got long legs and want to go with a high-waisted style of trouser/jean, do be sure to wear your top untucked, in order to balance out your proportions.

Pocket size and placement

Back pockets positioned relatively high on your bottom will make it look higher and more “pert” whereas low slung pockets have the unfortunate effect of making your bottom look low slung too! The larger the pocket, the smaller your bottom will look in comparison (and vice versa, of course).

How to style your white trousers/jeans

White jeans and trousers are wonderfully versatile and can be dressed up or down according to the occasion and your style personality. As you can see from the pictures at the top of this article, you’ll be able to wear them with pretty much any colour in your palette, be that vibrant, muted, light, deep, warm or cool.

Casual

Wear with trainers/flip flops and a tee or casual knit. Full length jeans can be rolled at the ankle.

Smart casual

Go for a chic French Riviera look by teaming with a striped Breton (Kettlewell have various styles and colourways), stylish sunglasses and a straw bag. Or substitute a pretty floral blouse and ballet flats or heels for a feminine look.

Smart

Adding a jacket, belt and and heels will instantly elevate your look.

And finally…

It doesn’t matter how much (or how little) you pay for your jeans, the key to looking good in them is getting the style and fit right for your shape.

For suggestions of where to buy and how to style your white jeans or trousers, check out the “Finds” and “Lookbook” sections of my latest online catalogue.