I. Introduction
For decades, the fashion rule dictating not to wear white after Labor Day has been a topic of controversy. If you’re one who loves to follow fashion rules, you’ve probably asked yourself, “Why?”. Why would a simple color be ruled out of fashion in a certain season? Similarly, if you’re one who loves to break fashion rules, you’ve probably asked yourself if there’s a legitimate reason behind this one. This article aims to explain the history behind this fashion rule, offer tips on wearing white after Labor Day, and ultimately, explain why it’s time to break tradition.
II. The History Behind the Rule: Why White is Out of Style After Labor Day
The fashion rule not to wear white after Labor Day is said to have come from the early 1900s, when the upper class would return from summer vacations and switch over their wardrobes to more fall/winter-appropriate colors. For them, wearing white after Labor Day was a sign of not knowing what was socially acceptable. As time passed, this became a widely accepted rule, with more reasons behind it.
In terms of societal reasons, white was seen as a color solely for the summer, or deemed more formal and unsuitable for the winter seasons. In the past, winter clothing was seen to be heavier and more durable, featuring dark and rich colors that conveyed warmth and safety. On the one hand, this may have been a way to differentiate between the working and wealthy classes who could afford to have different clothing solely for the seasons. On the other hand, the fashion rule became more of a status symbol–demonstrating if you were in the know or not.
Historically, this rule has been reinforced in several ways. For instance, it is said that in 1957, a publication called Vogue’s Book of Etiquette supported the reasoning behind the rule. Additionally, society women and various designers have been quoted explaining that breaking the fashion rule was downright tacky.
III. Breaking Tradition: Why It’s Time to Wear White After Labor Day
Times have changed, and so have fashion rules. Nowadays, white is seen as a versatile color that can be incorporated into fall and winter wardrobes; various styling options make it easier to embrace this color irrespective of the season.
Wearing white beyond summer is both chic and daring. The key to wearing white post-Labor Day is to be creative with your outfits while ensuring that they are suitable for the season. Allow yourself to be playful with the combinations of whites, tans, and creams. After all, the fashion industry has recognized that it’s okay to break rules and has embraced white after Labor Day.
Beyoncé, Kate Middleton, Jessica Alba, and J.Lo are just a few fashion icons who have broken this rule and looked fantastic doing it. Hence, you can stop worrying about the old-fashioned rule and turn the stress of shopping for seasonal colors into your opportunity to mix and match and flaunt your personal style.
IV. Tips for Stylish Fall Fashion: Alternatives to Wearing White After Labor Day
Sometimes, people opt not to wear white after Labor Day because they feel they are limited to white outfits only. However, there are several classy and stylish alternatives that can easily be styled. Neutral colors like camel, beige, and gray are classic fall colors that complement any outfit. You can also create a fuller, more textured, or layered outfit by incorporating statement accessories or outerwear. Think scarves, hats, jackets, and boots.
V. The Practical Reasons Why White is a No-Go After Labor Day
While fashion is all about self-expression and creativity, certain practicalities rule out the idea of wearing white beyond summer. For instance, the weather is a significant limiting factor. White fabric is thinner, and it’s easy to spot any dirt, meaning you will need to take extra precautions when wearing and handling white clothing. Additionally, wearing white is practical in hotter climates, as it reflects sunlight and heat, but, once fall arrives, your temperature drops, making white outfits unsuitable for warmth.
VI. The Fashion Industry’s Take on the White After Labor Day Rule
It’s a norm in the fashion industry that trends are meant to be broken, including the no-white-after-Labor-Day rule. Some designers have even gone as far as to make white a staple color in their collections. For instance, Karl Lagerfeld’s Fall/Winter 2018 collection embraced white as the main color, with both the iconic double-C logo and quilted Chanel handbags coming in the snowy hue. It proved that white can be fashionable in winter, and, looking at the outcomes, it was a successful representation of breaking this fashion rule.
VII. Celebrity Style: How to Wear White Post-Labor Day Like a Pro
Need inspiration on how to wear white in the fall? Here are a few examples:
Jessie J embraced the monochromatic look with a matching white leather top and pants, adding edgy black boots and a classic Gucci crossbody bag for a chic daytime outfit.
For a dressy dinner party, Kendall and Kylie Jenner both wore white ensembles. Kendall opted for a white coat and pantsuit combination, while Kylie styled a simple white mini dress with pointed white high heels.
In Italy, Gigi Hadid and Emily Ratajkowski were both spotted wearing white during Milan Fashion Week. Gigi wore a tailored and textured pantsuit, while Emily styled a sleeveless white jumpsuit with a blazer and boots.
VIII. Conclusion
Nowadays, fashion rules are no longer strict and less judgmental. Breaking them can go an incredibly long way in creatively expressing yourself, and the no-white-after-Labor-Day rule is no exception. With time, practicality and societal reasoning have all evolved, and we have the freedom to wear what we find stylish and comfortable. Wearing white after Labor Day can be a bold move, but it’s a personal decision, and we hope that this article has given you the confidence to embrace your personal style and break traditional rules if you choose to do so.