I’d like to take this opportunity to call bullshit on the No White After Labour Day Rule, because I, personally, think it’s one of the stupidest “rules” out there. Plus, I happen to own a fantastic pair of white pants, which I dearly love and spent too much on to only wear for a couple of months a year . . . and then there’s my no-pants outlook on summer, because BARE LEGS, you guys.
So, BULLSHIT on you, No White After Labour Day Rule. Aha! Take that, you stupid fashion rule.
In case you’ve ever wondered how this (outdated) rule came to be, I’ve found a few possibilities. Since white fabric generally tends to be much lighter than darker fabrics—and also doesn’t attract the sun like a dark colour would—white clothing would keep our non-air conditioned friends of yesteryear a little cooler when the temperatures soared.
There was, of course, the very sensible notion that wearing white shoes after the warm weather disappeared would ruin them—think rain, snow, and, in this day and age, salt! Nothing ruins a white shoe like mud, which apparently doesn’t exist in the summer to those who argue this reason. But, in what world does function rule fashion? None, really, because FASHION. And also, snobbery.
White clothing was once reserved for peeps much richer than I who enjoyed summers outside of the city in luxurious white linen suits, cream dresses, and Panama hats, while poor folk (like me!) shuffled to work in dark clothes day in and day out. These are the people who didn’t have to wear black for fear of spilling coffee and red wine all over themselves as I tend to do every time I wear white.
But I digress.
I’m a firm believer that the No White After Labour Day Rule should go and live in the world of No Horizontal Stripes and Don’t Mix Patterns. So, I’m banishing it.
To wear white after the temperatures cool, reach for heavier fabrics (think white denim or wool), and mix light, airy fabrics with deep, bold pieces for a romantic, chic balance.
To wear your favourite white pants after the leaves begin to turn, pair them with dark, heavy pieces is structured shapes for work, and reach for cozy sweaters and boots for easy weekend style.
1. Figure Fit Jacket, H&M, $59.95
2. Basic Boatneck T-Shirt, Smart Set, $18.90
3. Chaella Shoe, Spring, $34.99
4. 1969 Legging Skimmer Jeans, Gap, $19.99 SALE
5. Day In, Day Outside Hat, Modcloth, $39.99
6. Fisherman Knit Sweater, Forever 21, $23.80
8. Hassick Ankle Bootie, Aldo, $63.00 SALE
Want to add something white to your wardrobe for fall and winter? Look for cream or ivory pieces—they’re less jarring and help warm up your complexion. Need some inspiration? Perhaps these will help:
1. Ivory Moto Zip Coat, Victoria’s Secret, $168
2. Lace Against Time Bootie, Bait Footwear, $74.99
3. Ivory Box Pleat Skirt, Banana Republic, $79.50
4. Cashmere Multi-Way Dress, Victoria’s Secret, $49.50 SALE
Hello! Thanks for coming over. If you're not so sure about wearing white, you might want to try my favourite colour on for size. It's lovely! But if that doesn't tickle your fancy, rest assured, this style staple is as seasonless as they come.
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