When I think of summer dressing, the first items that come to mind are denim shorts, tank tops, and sundresses. But that certainly isn’t the case everywhere. Sure, tank tops are a universal staple, just like linen frocks and an easy pair of cutoff shorts. But in some places, an entirely different garment reigns supreme when warm temperatures arrive, and it’s one we hardly give enough credit to here in the United States. And that, my fashion friends, is the white trouser.

White trousers are elegant, understated, and even billowy in the way only André Aciman, author of Call Me By Your Name, can adequately describe in words. In Italy and France, two summer destinations Americans often plan to visit months in advance, the white trouser is absolutely essential. Whether paired with a crisp poplin shirt, a ribbed tank top, or an oversized tee, there’s really nothing you can’t style alongside a simple pair of white slacks, no matter the material, shade, or silhouette. Linen or cotton, stark white or ivory, straight or wide leg—take your pick. Ahead, see for yourself the sartorial prowess of the anti-jeans trend that dominates Europe’s fashion capitals every summer.