iStyle: White heat

A new capsule collection from French Connection showcases the coolest colour for summer, in both minimal and feminine ways, says Emma Akbareian

Nothing says summer like an all-white outfit. The arrival of searing optical brightness in to stores and wardrobes signals the arrival of the new season, conjuring hot dusky climes, weddings and Wimbledon.

Whatever the meaning, white is the ultimate neutral shade – it can be paired with any other colour from soft pastels to bright neons in order to make them pop, and works just as well as evening wear as styled more casually. For spring/summer white was spotted all over the runways, from sporty incarnations at Alexander Wang to more something altogether more lady like at Marni.

On the high street, too, white is a big trend and French Connection has taken it to heart with the Little White Lies capsule collection to help whitewash wardrobes. It-girl and model Suki Waterhouse is the face of the range which includes dresses and separates that can be mixed and matched to make up a striking all-white wardrobe.

There are two distinct approaches in the collection: on the minimal side, crisp cotton shirts, tailored blazers and smart city shorts offer a clean take on the trend while an entirely girlie interpretation includes soft silk cami tops, pretty lace dresses and floaty chiffon blouses.

Understandably, it is a colour that some shy away from, practicality is not an entirely unwarranted concern after all, especially when it comes to navigating public transport and interacting with small children. Upkeep is also worth bearing in mind – the trend is for white, not beige, yellow, grey or any other once-was-white shade.