I love denim but Pippa Middleton's breezy white trousers are a light alternative - and they look striking with all monochrome
She wore this chic look in 2017 and it's so timeless it would just as well for this summer heatwave
Jeans are a wardrobe staple for me all year round but the heatwave has led me to search for lighter options that still give that chic, relaxed look. White trousers are a lovely alternative to denim and although you can easily style them with any other colour, Pippa Middleton made a strong case for keeping things monochrome in 2017.
Back then she was often spotted in London and on one of these occasions in July, Pippa wore white straight-leg trousers, black comfortable sandals and a scalloped white jacket. It was a striking combination and her trousers were the hero item.
Recreate Pippa's Outfit
This monochrome jacket is perfect for transitional dressing or cooler days. It's knitted from a cotton-blend material and has a relaxed fit, with a rounded neckline and practical front pockets. The contrast between the ivory and black piping is striking and the gold buttons add glamour.
Also available in navy blue and light grey, these lightweight cotton trousers are a sophisticated summer basic. They're straight-leg and have a comfy, elasticated drawstring waist. There are handy pockets and these would look so chic with a plain white top and sandals to match.
Affordable and simple, these black sandals are a useful footwear option to have in your collection. They're made from suede and have a slingback strap with a stylish buckle, as well as a buckle adornment on the front. Designed with Next's Forever Comfort® technology, these sandals offer cushioned support.
This is a fun and feminine take on a classic quilted jacket. The floral embroidery is a gorgeous touch and it's got a regular fit and collarless style. The piece fastens at the front with ties and the scalloped finish is reminiscent of Pippa's jacket from 2017. Throw on with jeans or white trousers and your favourite Tee.
Featuring a touch of linen for breathability, these straight-leg trousers are a smart yet comfortable style to wear with your favourite summer tops. They've got an elasticated waist and practical pockets. You can also get them in navy if you prefer deeper neutrals.
Currently on sale and also available in chocolate brown, these black leather sandals are a lovely alternative to heels when you want to still feel put-together for events or evenings out. They're flat and have gold-toned detailing that elevates the strappy design.
They were the neutral base she built her look around and the silhouette was breezy enough for warm weather without being super voluminous. Straight-cut trousers and jeans skim the leg and Pippa's had an extra off-duty feel thanks to the turn-up hems.
For an elevated daytime or date night look, I'd recommend tucking in your favourite tops to create a streamlined finish. However, if it's comfort and casualness you're looking for, follow Pippa's example and leave them draped over the top.
The Princess of Wales's sister wore a simple floral cami and layered a Kate Spade tweed jacket over the top. Collarless jackets give a traditional, minimalist edge to an outfit and are particularly striking when they're neutral.
Classic colours accentuate the simplicity of the jacket's design and Pippa's was white with a black scalloped trim. The stark contrast of black and white together draws the eye but isn't going to overpower everything else which is why I personally love monochrome so much.
The tweed fabric softened things and that's an important factor to consider when you're going for black and white outfits. Incorporating different textures softens things and Pippa's jacket complemented her white trousers but still stood out from them.
Her black sandals from LK Bennett matched with the piping and tied the whole ensemble together. If you're more drawn to colourful items in your summer capsule wardrobe then you could easily put your own twist on her style.
White cotton or linen trousers are very breathable and would work with so many different shades, from brights to pastels. This is the kind of versatility you get with jeans, but trousers like Pippa's are just that bit comfier and lighter to wear in the heat.
You can also wear them as the weather gets cooler, paired with different jackets and sturdier footwear like loafers or white trainers. Cropped jackets that fall to the top of the waistband give a neat aesthetic, whilst longline designs elongate your frame.
The Princess of Wales's sister used to love both types, but nowadays we don't tend to see her out and about much in jacket weather. However, Kate tends to stick to longer jackets with her white trousers and the two of them have similar, sophisticated styles.
