Fashion: Wimbledon Whites

It's game, set and match for white this summer. You don't have to follow the strict Wimbledon dress code, but an all-white outfit is always a winning look.

Clean, pure and simple, it's almost as versatile as black in providing limitless outfit opportunities.

"There are so many great ways to wear white for summer," says Fiona Wellins, Colour Me Beautiful consultant.

"Don't be put off by the practicality factor - make the most of this fresh shade while you can."

Here's the essential guide on how to work bright whites...

Smart whites

One of the chicest ways to wear white is cool and minimalist. Think unfussy shapes, clean lines and structured silhouettes.

Why not give the white trouser suit a whirl? It's the instant way to convey power - and that you simply don't give a fig about dry cleaning bills.

"White tailoring is best suited to rectangle body shapes or neat hourglass figures with small curves," advises Wellins.

"You can keep it city-like and plain, or add a feminine touch with a soft blouse underneath."

Experiment with different variations of tailored suiting pieces too. A white longline waistcoat will be the perfect summer cover-up, or step out like the tennis players in crisp white shorts.

Dressy whites

Elton John's annual summer gathering, the White Tie & Tiara Ball, is testament to the fact that white and glamour go together perfectly, especially in high summer.

But, unlike black, it isn't always the most flattering colour to wear if you're not body confident.

Wellins says: "Generally, like bright colours, white attracts attention, so if you are self-conscious about certain parts of your body, don't wear it on those parts!

"You also need to choose a fabric that suits your body shape and your style."

White ruffles are hot details for this season but they will add extra volume - great for petite and boyish frames, but avoid if you have curvy hips or big bust.

Be Great Gatsby-inspired and grab double the attention with white and sparkle. There are endless flapper dresses available in white hues, finished off with eye-catching beaded embellishment for the wow factor.

Casual whites

White doesn't always have to be stark and crisp; it can look soft and relaxed in casualwear.

Bright tennis whites aren't for everyone, so be your own umpire and judge different shades against your colouring to see what complements you.

"Some will suit a pure, bright white and others will need a softer shade," Wellins recommends. "White can also make you look totally washed out, so if it has that effect on you, avoid wearing it near your face."

An all-white outfit might be risque for a day at the park, so adding contrasting black will counterbalance the paleness and make your outfit more practical.

Monochrome outfits will suit most but not all, according to Wellins: "Black and white are very cool shades, so it's not an ideal look for those with warm skin tones."

Will white suit me?

If wearing Wimbledon white fills you with fear, play doubles with colour. Even a statement accessory in a contrasting colour will make your outfit white hot.

Here, Wellins reveals which colours to pair white up with for your individual look:

:: Pale blonde colourings will look super-feminine matching their summer pastel shades with white.

:: If you have dark hair and dark eyes, wear white with a deep red or green to set off your rich tones.

:: Redheads can warm it up with their best yellows and oranges.

:: If you have grey or silver hair, wear your whites with sparkle, hot pink or ocean blue to compliment your striking cool colouring.

:: If you have bright blue or green eyes and dark hair, choose one of your best bright jewel tones, like this season's emerald green, for a glamorous look.

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