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Despite misconceptions that white shouldn’t be worn after Labour Day, the move towards ’80s fashion has seen this previous rule broken. Looking to the likes of George Michael and American Rebel Steve McQueen for style inspiration, white jeans has seen a recent revival that can take your wardrobe from Summer to Winter effortlessly.
A statement for all days of the week, white jeans can give you preppy, European vibes whilst still looking modern – but its how you wear them that counts.
“Keep it simple,” says Mr Porter style director Olie Arnold as told to Fashion Beans. “Avoid ripped or overly-stressed styles and instead look for a washed denim in a slim-leg fit. Pair your jeans with shirts or T-shirts in warmer tones to avoid harsh colour blocking, or try a short-sleeved print shirt for a fresh summer look. Consider footwear that will complement the rest of your outfit too – loafers, boat shoes and or tennis sneakers will keep the look grounded.”
And that being said, here is ICON’s guide to choosing the best white jeans for your kit.
Buying Guide to White Jeans
Fit: When looking at fit and style for white jeans, it is best to avoid anything too tight fitting to avoid a sheer appearance. Try a classic style like a straight-leg or slim fit for a sure-fire win.
Colour: The white jean trend includes an array of different shades so don’t be discouraged if stark white isn’t quite your style. For a take on the trend, look to darker shades including bone and ivory for easier wearability.
Quality: Possibly one of the most important considerations to keep in mind is quality. White jeans will show up pretty much every flaw and mark, so it is best to invest in a good pair with quality fabric that will keep its shape and colour.
Finish: Lastly, its best to consider finish when hitting ‘checkout’. Like style, you want something clean and fresh, that will stay cool and in-style, season after season. Avoid jeans that are too distressed, and if you want some personal flair, keep it simple.
Best Brands for White Jeans
Acne
Scandi and timeless in every way, if you want a pair of white jeans that will never date, or wear, Acne is the Swedish label to check out. With a premium name behind the denim, you can rest assure that your money will be put behind a worthwhile jean.
Acne Slim Leg Jeans / $350 AUD SHOP NOW
Acne Loose Fit Jeans / $430 AUD SHOP NOW
Acne Tapered Leg Jeans / $380 AUD SHOP NOW
Calvin Klein
Established since 1968, Calvin Klein has not only made a name for itself with its iconic underwear, but also with its denim. Known for its famous collaborations, including the most recent Andy Warhol capsule, its best denim silhouettes are continually praised.
Calvin Klein Warhol Portrait Denim Athletic Taper Jeans / $291 AUD SHOP NOW
Calvin Klein CKJ 035 Men Straight White Selvedge Jeans / $343 AUD SHOP NOW
Calvin Klein Great White Skinny Jeans / $200 AUD SHOP NOW
Levi’s
One of the oldest and most recognisable brands in the denim circuit, Levi’s denim and its classic styles have been held at prestige for years. While the American brand is best known for its old-school washes, the brand does include white denim in a limited line of classic silhouettes.
Levi’s Slim Tapered Jeans / $133 AUD SHOP NOW
Levi’s 501 Original Fit Jeans / $172 AUD SHOP NOW
Dsquared2
Known for its statement pieces and OTT runways, Canadian twins Dean and Dan Caten of Dsquared2 have brought a large range of white denim to the table. More reserved than its printed pieces, the brand offers up a line of slim fit jeans with simple variations on quality denim. If you’ve got some cash to burn we recommend this lot.
Dsquared2 Slim-Fit Jeans / $840 AUD SHOP NOW
Dsquared2 Skater stitched Patchwork Jeans / $760 AUD SHOP NOW
Dsquared2 Slim-Fit Jeans / $670 AUD SHOP NOW
Topman
UK high-street brand Topman have been providing affordable denim for years, and has become a cult item for many people. Possibly the cheapest rendition that won’t compromise on quality, the best thing about Topman is its endless offering of styles.
Topman White Stretch Skinny Jeans / £30 GBP SHOP NOW
Topman Off White Streth Slim Jeans / £30 GBP SHOP NOW
Topman White Knee Blow Out Skinny Jeans / £45 GBP SHOP NOW
Ralph Lauren
All-american fashion house Ralph Lauren, is king of preppy menswear. Along with its polo shirts, classic button ups and classic accessories, the Ralph Lauren name also houses an edited line of quality jeans. Amongst its diffusion lines, Polo Ralph Lauren and its Purple Label, you can find a handful of white staples that will be sure to last the distance.
Polo Ralph Lauren Sullivan Slim-Fit Stretch-Denim Jeans / $157 AUD SHOP NOW
Ralph Lauren Purple Label Slim-Fit Denim Jeans / $644 AUD SHOP NOW
G-Star RAW
Dutch in design but urban in style, G-Star RAW was founded by Jos van Tilburg in Amsterdam in 1989 before the height of the grunge style era. Continuing on its rougher aesthetic, the brand is known for its denim and has produced a style for a more edgy appeal.
G-Star RAW Motac Deconstructed 3D Slim Cropped Jeans / $220 AUD SHOP NOW
G-Star RAW Essentials 5620 Motion 3D Tapered Jeans / $450 AUD SHOP NOW
G-Star RAW D-Staq 3D Tapered Jeans / $200 AUD SHOP NOW
Cover Image: Instagram @simonnndjock
