OK, everyone, it's official. Memorial Day has come and gone, and it's time to bring on the white, right? And although many fashion experts extol the virtues of wearing white all year long now, it still seems that this basic of "non-colors" just fits more into the summer swing of things. After all, sliding through the dirty snow in white suede boots doesn't really make sense even to this go-go girl of the '60s.

This summer, white is one of the hottest fashion trends making the rounds at retail. And it's easy to incorporate it into your wardrobe. It goes with practically anything and any color. Here are a few tips on how to wear white right now:

—Go graphic. This year, white looks right with the bold punch of black — this classic combo has long been a favorite, but now it's gone graphic and mod. In everything from color-blocked sandals to wide striped handbags to those rockin' round sunglasses of Korean pop star Psy, black and white just looks right for summer style.

—Wear it head-to-toe. A white pantsuit can be a modern "go-to" outfit for all sorts of occasions this summer. Mix tailored trousers and jackets with a white ruffled blouse for the office or with a metallic tank for cocktails. Think of this white-on-white look as an alternative to the black tuxedo. And of course there's nothing more classic than the crisp white blouse teamed up with a slim black pencil skirt.

—Mix it up. Combining different shades of white in one outfit can be tricky. There are the bright shades of pure white and then the darker shades of creamier whites. These can be a sophisticated pairing, as a Moto- jacket and pencil skirt, or more casual in off-white linen pants and a white linen tunic.

—Get dressed. The white dress is another hit this summer, and it's not just the garden party dress that's brightening up the fashion landscape. These dresses have detail with a capital "D" — texture is the key — sheer panels, lace overlays and cutouts galore (in all the right places, of course)! Knee-length is the way to go!

—Do denim. White jeans have also become must-haves for summertime style for both men and women. The cropped Capri promises to be a great addition this season, if you don't already own a pair. And of course, white denim shorts are another "go-with-everything" fashion staple.

—Add accessories. If wearing white head-to-toe just scares you right out of the line at Starbucks, then there are plenty of white extras available to brighten up your summer wardrobe without adding a dime to your dry-cleaning bill. Again, remember you can wear white with just about everything. So go ahead and invest in these neutral accessories — an oversized white satchel, white gladiator sandals, white enamel cuff bracelets, even a bold French manicure.

Remember, you've got until Labor Day!

The white sundress is one of summer's brightest hits. Photo: Corey p at Kohl's.

Sharon Mosley is a former fashion editor of the Arkansas Gazette in Little Rock and executive director of the Fashion Editors and Reporters Association. To find out more about Sharon Mosley and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.