Move Over, Stick-of-Butter Trend—It's All About Oat-Milk Dressing This Year

Stick-of-butter dressing was a term coined by Man Repeller's brand director, Harling Ross, referring to the beigy, butter-hued outfits that fashion girls have been embracing for the past few years. This season, however, we’re pivoting our dairy preferences in favor of nutty oat-milk shades (a subtle difference but a noteworthy one). Off-white, ivory, and pearly hues were spotted in abundance on the S/S 20 runways and more recently during F/W 20 fashion month, confirming that the milky shade has staying power for 2020. Designers from Isabel Marant to Rejina Pyo brought us dreamy (and creamy!) head-to-toe ensembles in oat milk shades that are deliciously elegant and modern (which unquestionably require a steady hand when handling coffee). 

The key to pulling off the look is to mix textures within your outfit—a silky ecru skirt paired with a creamy knit top and pearly sandals, for example. Whatever off-white combination you choose, you can guarantee it’ll make for one striking and sophisticated look that can be worn year-round. Scroll below to see the color in action on the runways and on the streets. Then, shop our favorite off-white pieces on the internet.

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On the S/S 20 runways:
(Image credit: Courtesy of Rejina Pyo)

Rejina Pyo provided us with the chicest summer work outfit inspiration in the form of relaxed ivory suiting.

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(Image credit: Courtesy of Christopher John Rogers)

Christopher John Rogers taught us a lesson in mixing textures and silhouettes within your off-white ensemble.

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(Image credit: Courtesy of Isabel Marant)

Ecru hues always look better with a little lace, as seen as Isabel Marant. 

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On the F/W 20 runways:
(Image credit: Courtesy of Isabel Marant)

This Isabel Marant ensemble is oat-milk dressing at its finest.

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(Image credit: Courtesy of Adam Lippes)

Adam Lippes proved a sweater and wide-leg pants are a seriously chic way to pull off the trend.

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(Image credit: Courtesy of Max Mara)

Max Mara confirms that milky-white hues are here to stay for fall and winter.

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On the fashion set:
(Image credit: The Style Stalker)

The perfect blend of textures.

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(Image credit: @thestyleidealist)

All you need to pull off a neutral tonal look are jeans, a blazer, and a blouse. (Matching accessories won't hurt, either.)

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(Image credit: The Style Stalker)

Opt for slouchy and relaxed silhouettes to add a casual touch to the elegant hue. 

Shop the color trend:

Up next, presenting a treasure trove of affordable basics that are cool and comfy too.

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Judith Jones
Senior Fashion Market Editor

Judith Jones is the senior fashion market editor at Who What Wear who specializes in shopping content and trend stories with high-affiliate impact. She shares the coolest, most desirable fashion market finds and brands for every budget. Previous to working in fashion, Judith worked as a TV host on the PBS travel show Globe Trekker (airing on Netflix and Amazon Prime) sharing her passion for travel and culture.