Without a shadow of a doubt, white is our favorite color for summer. However, we don’t wait until Memorial Day to start wearing the hue head-to-toe. Instead of arbitrary rules and stodgy traditions, we let the temperature and our temperaments dictate where and when to go all-white. After all, a piece as sophisticated and versatile as the above Emerson Fry vest (available from Pinehurst’s PATRICIA FINDS) shouldn’t be stuck in the closet for the majority of the year.

Far from being wedding dress-esque, the St. Laurent gown available from CAPITOL in Charlotte (left) and Giada Forte embroidered frock available from HAMPDEN in Charleston (right) demonstrate why at least one long white dress belongs in every woman’s closet. Thanks to perfect proportions and lovely subtle details, these pieces are destined to be spring and summer dinner party go-tos for years to come.

Floaty and flattering (and featuring pockets!), the gauzy KIMONO-STYLE DRESS by Horses Atelier and lightweight SLEEVELESS DRESS by Assembly New York—both available from Scarpa in Charlottesville, Virginia—are timeless pieces. We love how they’re styled with subtle yet stunning accessories and gorgeous neutral shoes, also available from the STORE.

If we had to select one piece to be our official spring uniform, the white dress by Humanoid (left), available from Charlottesville’s ELOISE, would be it. Crisp and expertly cut, it could be dressed up or down, and will always look chic (especially when paired with a blue linen SCARF!). For weekends, Suno’s floral EYELET DRESS (right), available from Marissa Collections in Naples, is a sweet yet slightly edgy pick that’s perfectly appropriate for day paired with flats, but can also be worn with sandals for a chic evening look.

Get more stories like this delivered directly to your inbox. Sign up to receive The Scouted Life newsletter HERE.