ask shoedish: winter white
“Dear Shoedish, Can you please tell me the difference between white and winter white. I know that the no white after Labor Day rule isn’t a true standard for fashion anymore, but I still don’t get what makes a white appropriate for winter.”
Winter white would be considered a warmer tone of white, say a creamy off-white or warm khaki. Think about the difference between nonfat milk and creamer. I always think of winter whites as having a slight yellow tone, like chalk, but that doesn’t necessarily have to be the case. The truth is you can wear just about any white article in winter as long as it’s anchored correctly, see the picture to the right. White is practically an extension of winter. It’s sumer shoes and clothes worn in winter that pose a problem. Winter white can be determined by the texture, style, and material of your clothes as well. For shoes, this can be a little tricky, especially today when fashionistas will try anything to get that unique and personal style. No white after Labor Day was once a standard fashion rule and wearing tights with sandals and peep-toes was taboo just 3 years ago, so you can see how the development of fashion is constantly changing the rules. If you’re not comfortable making up your own rules, here are a few simple standards that are followed by the majority of contemporary fashionistas. Anchor a white dress with opaque tights and heavy boots (not clunky, but heavy). Do not wear a white dress with black tights and white shoes, but do wear a black dress and black tights with white shoes. Leathered knee-high boots in warm, rich, white tones are perfect for winter wear and can be paired with sweater dresses and jeans. Crisp whites can be worn in winter when paired with thick clothing, like oversized sweaters, big belts, and chunky earrings. Here are a few of our favorite white shoes for winter.
The classic kid. Dr. Martens are back and revamped and these perfectly patent white ankle boots are the perfect addition to your winter white shoe collection.
A perfectly classic loafer with some heavy embellishments make these the perfect choice for a cold winter’s day. These Alberto Fermani loafers are just what the snowman ordered.
Winter wouldn’t be winter without the wearing of some knee-high boots. Swap your classic black pair for a thick leather pair in bone or classic white for a classically casual and sophisticated look. Boots by Marc Jacobs.
Tory Burch’s signature ballet flats are the perfect example of versatility. These casual flats are great in all 4 seasons, though we’d suggest that you avoid wearing them after a snowfall.
Here’s a yellowed winter white from Aldo and in a trendy shape for the winter season. These spectator booties are a wonderful example of white for winter.
What white not to wear in winter, though they’re great for summer, which means you can still buy them for now. Available at Barratts.
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