My client wanted to add Winter white items to her cold weather wardrobe capsules, so we set out to do just that on our shopping day last week. We scored big time because unlike previous Fall fashion seasons, there are colour options beyond black and grey at the moment. Long may it last. 

Of all the white items that we got that day, my client looked the most stunning when we matched up Banana Republic’s Monogram white wide-leg pants and Merino V-neck sweater  in “cocoon”. The sweater is also available in a subtle gold lurex, which is just as gorgeous paired with the Winter white trousers. Size down on the trousers because they run large, but the sweater fits true to size. It has a slightly roomy fit with just the right amount of structure and does not itch. 

Winter white trouser ensembles are close to my heart, although it’s not everyone’s cup of tea to wear a stark and light colour “almost” head to toe. Yet to my eye the effect is modern, chic, simple, bold and elegant. The visual of the Winter white trouser and sweater ensemble here does not represent the exact items that we used to build my clients outfits, but it does provide a good idea. She will wear variations of this outfit to work, out to dinner, to a casual holiday party, or to an event.

Winter white comes in shades like ivory, bone, cream and a very milky tan or mink. So the first step is to choose the shades that work for you, and by all means mix up the shades in one outfit. It’s odd how I don’t fancy mixing up different shades of black, but I’m fine mixing up shades of white. 

Here are the components of the ensemble: 

• Bottoms: Choose trousers that are thick, drapey, preferably lined and in a wool or crepe blend. Wide legs, bootcuts or tapered legs are fab. Winter white jeans will work if creating a casual vibe is more your thing.
• Top: Cashmere, mohair, angora or merino wool knitwear is ideal because it’s refined, dressy and amps up the elegant and “soft” factor. Gold lurex is another fab option. A chunkier knit could work, but will also dress down the look. Keep the top a little roomy, untucked and scrunch the sleeves to showcase an alluring forearm. 
• Footwear: Pointy toed pumps are fab, but any dressy pump in a light colour, pattern or metallic is good. Throw in a colour or black if creating a high colour contrast is key. To dress down the outfit, add a cappuccino or taupe coloured bootie. Works like a charm. 
• Clutch: No other bag will work as well because a clutch provides the best modern or slightly retro injection. Keep the clutch casual when pairing the trousers with casual booties. Keep the clutch dressy with pumps. I like the look best with low contrasting neutrals or black. 
• Jewelry: Pearls look great, but so will gold and rose gold. Or leave off the necklace and add arm candy or statement earrings. 

In addition to the wide legs, my client got this great pair of Modern Sporty Straight Leg Pants from Ann Taylor. They are also available in a curvy fit, tall and petite. It’s nice to change things up from almost black to almost Winter white from head to toe.