White is a neutral shade that belongs in our wardrobe, all year round
There is a time-honoured tradition in the United States of not wearing white after Labor Day – the first Monday in September. If the same "rule" were to apply in Australia, the cut-off would likely fall around Easter time.
But thanks to our mild climate, and Australian designers' knack for nailing transseasonal dressing, white is a neutral shade that should belong in every wardrobe, all year round.
Local designers including Lee Matthews, Christopher Esber and Bianca Spender are all embracing white for a late winter drop
In Europe, several designers have shown different takes on winter white in their latest resort collections.
Theory has A-line midi skirts in warm white paired with crisp white shirts and matching flats, while at Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld sent white knits and boucle suiting down the runway of his cruise show in Paris last month.
Warmer whites – think the colour of pouring cream rather than photocopy paper – provide an easy blend with many of this season's earthy tones.
Winter white is a colour that pops in a head-to-toe look, especially when you add texture to give definition to your outfit.
To put together a look, start with a statement piece such as a chunky sweater, knitted dress or a button-through skirt, and build your outfit from there.
Seek out pieces in heavier fabrics such as wool, '70s-inspired faux fur or corduroy and layer with sheer turtlenecks and loose-fitting tees in organic cotton or wool for extra warmth.
And you can mix cool and warm tones – when nailing relaxed dressing, rules are made to be broken.
Fashion editor Penny McCarthy Photography Bec Parsons Hair Brad Mullins using O&M. Make-up Naomi McFadden using Luma Beauty. Fashion assistant Tatiana Waterford. Model Logan at Priscillas
BEAUTY TIP
To give skin the appearance of warmth during winter, try a step-by-step fake tan application such as Jbronze Gradual Tanning Cream.