Summer Denim Essentials 2012

Why we love them: There's nothing that signals the start of Summer quite like a white pair of jeans. No, we don't subscribe to the white-denim rules, but regardless, nothing feels quite as seasonal as a pair of crisp white jeans and a t-shirt. These are an old favorite, and they're not going anywhere anytime soon.

How to wear them: White jeans are effortless but a little more dressed-up than your regular blues. They can feel chic for the office with a bright blouse and wedges or dressed down for the beach with flat sandals and a breezy button-down over your bikini.

Our pick: J.Crew Ankle Stretch Toothpick Jean in White Denim ($125)