Yes, You Can Wear White—and Look Chic, Slim, and Fabulous

White Lie #3: "White is too risky for the real world."

—Cynthia Arrieu-King, 37, professor

Arrieu-King has been convinced since high school, when a white button-down was part of her uniform, that to wear white is to invite disaster. To this day, she says, "My goal is to always be wearing jeans."

Think Again:
Glassman advises Arrieu-King to include some white pieces in her laid-back wardrobe by concentrating on forgiving textures. (It's tough to spot a drop of coffee on corduroy, brocade, or tweed.) This cotton bouclé jacket with beading at the neckline (Magaschoni, $540) smartens up a cream lace tee (Lauren by Ralph Lauren, $95) and worn-in gray jeans (Paige Denim, $199). "If you're scared of wearing white on your lower half, pale gray is another option—it's flattering on the hips, thighs, and tush," says Glassman. "I could wear this to teach," Arrieu-King says. "I'm still in jeans, but they're snappy."
Earrings, Loree Rodkin. Bracelets, Bottega Veneta.