I don't know? I seem to see a lot of variety here
http://www.portraitartist.com/girlsindoors.htm and here
http://www.portraitartist.com/girlsoutdoors.htm
As for portraits of the past, Sargent painted many young women and girls in black dresses, as well. I am sure that there are a lot of paintings of girls in white dresses, but there are a lot of men in dark blue suits,too.
Maybe it is just what the girl had on? Perhaps the artist wanted to paint a white dress, since it can be beautiful when painted well.
Also many artists strive for a timeless beauty and some colored dresses are dictated a lot by the fashions of the time. How long does it take you to spot an 80's bridesmaid's dress?
Also there are other factors if you want to delve into human sociology. There is a virginal innocence associated with white. So the association of innocence and youthfulness with white could lead to a subconscious appeal of a girl in a white dress.
As for clothing in portraits in general, I must quote Everett Raymond Kinstler, since he already said it much better then I would.
Quote:
General Considerations
The reason the portrait has been commissioned and the place where it will hang largely determine the kind of dress required. If a portrait is going to hang in an office or boardroom, the attire should suit the occasion: more formal perhaps. An informal portrait, on the other hand, is more suited to a painting that will hang in a home.
On women's attire:
Because women's fashions can change so drastically, it is especially important to lean toward simplicity. There is less likelihood that a simple, classic style will change over the years then will a particular line that is in style for the season. You don't want your painting to look dated in five years. If the outfit is simple, the painting is not too affected by style.
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In the end, it is up to you and your client's tastes as to the style of dress chosen for a portrait but, I think I have covered just about every angle on this subject.