Is It Ok To Wear White After Labor Day? We Say It Is
It's more of a fashion tradition, not a hard and fast rule.
After the Labor Day holiday, many women start to shift their wardrobe around, packing away all of their white clothing because it’s no longer the season to wear it. But we’re here to amend that fashion rule. After all, who was the first to say you’re not allowed to wear white after Labor Day? I’ve always avoided doing so simply because I was told to, but recently I’ve taken to breaking the rules!
In search of answers, I connected with fashion experts to find out why it is okay to wear the tried and true neutral any time of year. Plus, discover some amazing white clothing that’ll look good even after Labor Day comes and goes!
Why can’t you wear white after Labor Day?
“The rule about wearing white after Labor Day is more of a fashion tradition than a strict guideline,” Jamie Germain and Ashanti Smoot from Sashé tell me. “Previously, it was believed that white clothing was a symbol of summer and should be worn during the warmer months. Labor Day, which falls on the first Monday in September, marked the unofficial end of summer, so the rule was to stop wearing white after that date.”
But fashion norms have changed and relaxed over time (thank goodness)! “Many fashionistas now wear white year-round,” the duo adds. “The key is to wear what makes you feel comfortable and suits the occasion.”
3 Must-Have White Pieces for Any Closet
Whether you’ve stayed away from white clothing out of fear of staining it or you have so much in the way of white clothes you’re not sure what to do with it, fashionistas Jamie and Ashanti have the answers. There are three white staples every woman needs in her closet: a white button-down shirt, a white dress, and a white sweater.
“A white button-down shirt is an all-around classic piece that can be dressed up or down,” they share.”Wear it tucked into a pencil skirt for a polished office look, paired with jeans for a casual weekend outfit, or layered under a blazer for a sophisticated ensemble.”
A few of their favorites:
Up next: a white dress. “This versatile piece can be casual or formal depending on the style and accessories,” say Ashanti and Jamie. “It can range from a simple silk dress to a more elaborate knit dress. Wear a winter white silk dress with knee-high boots and a suede trench coat. For a knit dress, add a little razzle-dazzle with statement accessories (jewelry, scarf, or belt) and a printed bootie for a chic and effortless look.”
A few of their favorites:
Finally, white sweaters. “They are cozy knit tops that can be worn in cooler weather,” the fashion experts explain.
As for how to style: “It can be a pullover, cardigan, or turtleneck. Pair it with dark denim such as flared or bootcut jeans and layer it over a collared shirt for a preppy style. Another option could be to wear it with a midi skirt and flats for a polished fall outfit.”
A few of their favorites:
White Clothing for Before and After Labor Day
Looking for more amazing white styles? We have some more amazing looks for you!
Easily Sultry Off-Shoulder Ruched Midi Dress
- Ruching hugs curves
- Bodycon silhouette
- Smooth double-knit fabric with stretch
Spotted You V-Neck Polka Dot A-Line Mini Dress
- Sleeveless satin
- Flirty V-neck
- A-line silhouette
Casually Cool Long Sleeve Denim Romper
- Non-stretch denim fabric
- Collared neck and long sleeves
- Snap button-down front
Devlin Pant in Cloud White
- High-waisted
- Linen
- Invisible back zip with hook and eye clasp
Marcy Midi Dress in White
- Scoop neckline
- Adjustable straps
- Midi length
Ciao Ruffles Maxi Dress in Cloud White
- V-neckline
- Adjustable straps
- Invisible side zip
Ellia Romper in Off White
- Spread collar
- Long sleeves with elasticized cuffs
- Functional buttons and elasticized waist
Belted Woven Cargo Pants
- Relaxed silhouette
- Wide leg
Nylon Boxy Crop Wide Sleeve Shirt
- Cropped fit
- Functional buttons down front
- Wide bell sleeve
Aurelie Pleated Mini Dress
- Adjustable tie
- Split neckline
- Pleated tiered skirt and drop waist
Angelica Pleated Blouse
- Relaxed fit
- Pullover styling
- V-neck with tie
Cuffed Pleated Yoke Top
- Elasticized cuffs
- Short sleeves with pleating
- Smocked at the shoulders
White Floral Lace Blouse
- Lined with cami
- Puffed sleeves
- Relaxed fit
Kiera Dress
- Made from organic cotton
- Square neckline
- Tiered skirt
Memphis Gauze Dress
- Made from organic cotton
- Puff sleeves
- Elastic hem and removable belt
Dylan Textured Shirt
- Lightweight cotton
- Chest pockets
- Three-button open V-neck
Reagan Top
- Classic button-down design
- Ruffle at the neck
- 100% cotton
Hazel Top
- Fluttered sleeves
- Raw edge at neck
- Organic cotton
Carson Jean
- Over 500 five-star ratings!
- Boyfriend cut with slim fit
- Can be worn cuffed or not
Ready Mock Neck Tank
- Built-in shelf bra
- Removable bra pads
- Ultra-breathable mesh fabric
Ready Swing Dress
- Sweat-wicking Nybrid fabric
- Detached shorts included!
- Built-in shelf bra
All Square Skort
- Peruvian cotton
- Hidden pockets
- “Won’t-fly-up” fabric weight
White Shoes for After Labor Day
We didn’t forget about shoes! Shop these great white selections from Chinese Laundry:
- Theresa Platform Sandal
- Hadiya Slingback Flat
- Tiana Platform Sandal
- Lucianna Dress Slide
- Theena Platform Sandal
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