Why A White Skirt Is The Key To Your Summer Wardrobe

Summer nights call for effortless pieces – and building your look around a sleek white skirt is both fresh and timeless. This slinky maxi style by Swedish brand Toteme is cut in a lightweight cashmere blend fabric that is perfect for balmy evenings at home or on vacation. A monochrome palette is always elegant, especially after dark, so pair the clean white style with a minimal black top – try the crisp lines of Simkhai’s ‘Shawn’ bustier, which will also find a place in your forever wardrobe. Finish with pared-back kitten-heel mules – Manolo Blahnik’s ‘Moiramu’ are a true classic. Then add a sprinkling of sparkle, something like By Pariah’s set of three gold and diamond rings will appeal to minimalists who appreciate maximum sparkle.

There’s something innately free-spirited about a white skirt in the sunshine, so lean into the bohemian mood with Etro’s classic tiered style, exclusive to NET-A-PORTER, it’s printed in a subtle check for texture. Complement its flowing silhouette by pairing with a floaty top – Isabel Marant’s ‘Yicki’ halterneck is pure ’90s nostalgia; cut from layers of printed silk voile, it will also look gorgeous with wide-leg jeans. Choose accessories that chime with the whimsical mood, too – The Row’s chocolate-brown ‘Bindle’ shoulder bag is crafted from supple suede with a pleasing slouch and will carry everything you need for summer in the city, from your phone to a handheld-fan. Zimmermann’s leather sandals from the SS25 runway make nailing elevated boho easy, thanks to the polished gold anklet detail.

Nothing says warm weather dressing quite like top-to-toe white. Seek out crisp cotton poplin pieces that will keep you cool as the mercury rises. Start with Brandon Maxwell’s ‘The Knox’ maxi skirt; the gently flared cut is an enduring shape, so it makes sense to pair it with another sartorial classic – the white shirt. Slvrlake’s oversized ‘Cocoon’ design is the sort of piece you’ll wear and wear (and wear), whatever the season. And for shoes? Gianvito Rossi’s ‘Calypso’ sandals deliver instant elegance, though this versatile duo will look just as chic with ballet flats or sneakers. And finally, Celine Eyewear’s vintage-inspired tortoiseshell sunglasses are perfect for protecting your eyes (and for people-watching in the park).

Add a white skirt to your packing list and it’s sure to become the backbone of your summer-escape closet. Trust a resortwear brand like Faithfull to craft perfect pieces for far flung shores. This wrap-effect linen ‘Suis’ design is a case in point, delivering the kind of effortless elegance every vacation needs. Simply layer it over your favorite one-piece for lunch by the pool or evening cocktails – we love Eres’s chocolate-brown cutaway style. Brilliantly versatile, this skirt will also work with an oversized linen shirt when you’re back in the office – or your favorite silky evening top for date night. Essential vacation accessories include an oversized basket bag – try this sleek style by Sensi Studio – and bold accessories such as Dinosaur Designs’ chunky resin bangles.

One of the most appealing elements of a white skirt is its versatility – as proven by this pretty, pleated cotton poplin design by Theory. Its subtle tonal stripes elevate the classic gathered waist silhouette. By day, wear yours with a denim jacket – Bottega Veneta’s intrecciato suede-trimmed style is cut from indigo denim in a boxy shape and is a true investment piece (as you would expect from the storied Italian house). Carry Alaïa’s ‘Le Click’ in chocolate-brown suede and slip on Saint Laurent Eyewear’s glossy black sunglasses for days spent sightseeing.

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