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White is timeless. It’s crisp, clean, and effortlessly chic, but let’s be honest, it can also be tricky. What looks bright and fresh on one person can feel flat or draining on another. The secret? Not all whites are created equal. From ivory to stark snow white, there’s a whole spectrum to explore, and when you find the one that suits your undertones, the effect is instant: fresh, glowy, and pulled together.

Whether you’re warm, cool, deep, or fair, here’s how to make white work for you, not against you.

Find Your Undertone First

Before diving into shades of white, get familiar with your skin’s undertone.

• Cool undertones: Your skin has hints of pink, red, or blue. Silver jewellery tends to suit you better than gold.
• Warm undertones: You lean golden, peachy, or yellow. Gold jewellery is your go-to.
• Neutral undertones: You sit somewhere in between, with no strong pull toward either side. Lucky you—most shades tend to work.

Knowing your undertone is key to picking the right white that enhances, rather than dulls, your natural glow.

Best Whites for Fair Skin

If you’re fair-skinned, especially with cool or neutral undertones, creamy whites, soft ivories, and eggshell tones work best. They offer contrast without being too stark. Avoid harsh, pure white, which can drain colour from your face and make you look a little ghostly.

Try pairing off-white blouses with soft pastel accessories or denim to keep the look grounded and wearable.

Try:

• Ivory linen dresses
• Eggshell button-downs
• Winter white knits with taupe or beige trousers

Best Whites for Medium and Olive Skin

Medium and olive skin tones are some of the most versatile when it comes to wearing white. Warm whites, natural cotton, ecru, and off-whites tend to complement your warmth and bring out your natural tan or undertone.

Avoid whites that lean too blue or cool—these can make olive skin appear slightly green or sallow.

Try:

• Ecru suits for summer events
• Structured cream blazers
• Off-white tops with olive green trousers

Best Whites for Deep Skin Tones

Rich, deep complexions look incredible in white, especially bright, clean, optic whites that pop against your skin. The contrast is stunning, and bolder whites only highlight your natural radiance. That said, don’t rule out warm tones like ivory or pearl, which can offer a softer, more romantic take.

If you want to warm it up even more, layer with camel or bronze accessories.

Try:

• Crisp white shirts with bold gold jewellery
• White silk dresses with tan sandals
• Snow-white knits in textured fabrics

Still Not Sure? Mix Textures and Layers

If you’re nervous about white not working for you, texture is your best friend. A thick cable-knit, a breezy linen, or a structured cotton will all interact with light differently, making white feel more dimensional—and less flat. You can also layer white with denim, camel, or soft neutrals to give the eye a place to rest.

Bonus Tip: Play With Makeup and Accessories

Still feel like white washes you out? A swipe of lipstick or warm-toned blush can balance everything. Gold jewellery, tan sandals, or a contrasting bag will also add warmth and prevent you from feeling too stark or monochrome.

White isn’t a one-shade-fits-all kind of colour. But with a little intention, and the right tone for your skin—you’ll find that wearing white can be one of the most flattering, fresh looks in your wardrobe. Whether it’s a structured blazer, a breezy summer dress, or a crisp tee, there’s a white out there for everyone. You just have to know which one’s yours.