Zuma PressWhite after Labor Day? Yes, please!
OK, so we know that no one really pays attention to that old-fashion faux pas anymore—and with good reason. In recent years, white gowns and accessories have ruled the red carpet.
But if you look back into Oscars history, there was only one Leading Actress nominee to wear white between 1980 and 2004. We had to wait almost a quarter century for another nominee to work the red carpet in a white gown.
Since then, we have seen five others, and we still can't get enough. In hopes that more people wear it, we are getting up on a soap box to sing the praises of wearing the shade. If you're white-color shy, we'll fill you in on how to wear the elegant hue on the red carpet—or any other big event for that matter.
White is associated with purity, cleanliness and neutrality. It's the equal balance of all the colors of the spectrum and, therefore, goes with mostly anything. In the western world and Japan, it's worn by brides, but in China and parts of Africa, it symbolizes mourning. On the red carpet, however, it's a surefire way to stand out.
First things first, if you're going wear the color on a night that counts, your teeth should be stellar. The contrast of less than pearly teeth against a white dress can be noticeable. Two weeks before you strut your stuff, start using a teeth whitening system like Crest 3D White Whitestrips for a beaming smile to match your attire.
Finding your perfect shade will help you begin your journey. If you're fair skinned, donning the shade with a hint of yellow will help warm the skin. Warmer skin tones can benefit from wearing Champagne hues to help keep a balanced look. Medium skin tones go better with creamy ivories, while darker skin tones can really get away with anything.
When purchasing a blanc ensemble, hold the piece up to the light to see how sheer or opaque it is. Consider wearing flesh tones underneath. You would think that white underclothes would be OK, but they can be just as noticeable as colored ones when paired with your ivory hues.
White is a highlighting color that can emphasize every nook and cranny. If you have some curves that you wish to minimize, stick to flowy, not clingy.
White can be the perfect blank canvas to accessorize. If you really want to be noticed, you can opt for bright, bold colored shoes and embellishments. For those who would consider that too over the top, turn to neutrals like soft greys or camels. Silver, gold and metallics are also excellent colors to throw into the mix for some added flair.
Wearing the porcelain tone is still off limits when you're attending a wedding or a funeral here in the states. Outside of those events though, you have officially been given carte blanche to wear it after Labor Day, before Memorial Day and any other time you like—including the Oscars!