Can You Wear White After Labor Day? (2024)

Fall & Winter

August 27, 2018

The summer is over and fall is here. Are you planning to put away your white clothes, or is it o.k. to wear white pants after Labor Day?

You probably grew up with the rule, “no white after Labor Day,” but that has pretty much gone by the wayside. This outdated way of dressing orignated in the 1800’s when wealthy city folk headed to their seaside summer homes between Memorial Day and Labor Day. White kept them cool in hot weather, and since it was not worn in the sooty city, white became a symbol of class and wealth. Once wealthy families headed back to work in the fall, white was retired until the following summer.

Of course, now anything goes, and it’s perfectly fine to wear white all year round. Some whites look more seasonal than others based on where you live. For example:

Can You Wear White After Labor Day? (1)

How to Wear White by Location

Florida, Southern California, or a tropical country or climate – You are fine to keep wearing your light, bright summer whites all year round.

East Coast, or in the Mid-West, or in any area with a colder climate. This is a little trickier. You can still wear white clothing but you are best to switch out the fabric. Put away white tops, dresses, and pants, made from light summer fabrics like linen, chiffon, and breezy cotton. Instead go for corduroy, cashmere, wool, denim, silk, or any type of white knit which is more suited to cooler temperatures.

Everywhere Year Round – A white shirt or blouse, or a soft, stretchy white t-shirt look great year-round, no matter where you live. (Check out my post on how to transition your white clothes into fallto see what I mean.)

How to Style White in Fall

1. Wear White Jeans with a Richly Colored Autumn Sweater

White jeans can easily transition into September by adding a rich autumn-colored sweater or top in colors like brick, burgundy, rust, plum, or brown.

Can You Wear White After Labor Day? (2)

2. Wear White With Black in Fall

Black and white look chic any time of the year. Team white or off-white jeans with a light t-shirt and a fabulous black poncho. Add some cool black and white plaid booties and a gorgeous black fall bag to tie the look together, and you’re good to go.

Can You Wear White After Labor Day? (3)

3. Create a White-on-White Fall Look

Varying shades of white from top to bottom in a mix of fall textures like denim and knit fabric create an elegant fall look. Honey nubuck-colored accessories ground the look in cooler weather.

Can You Wear White After Labor Day? (4)

4. Transition a White Dress into Fall

Some dresses can be transitioned into fall depending on the style and fabric. Try adding a fall-colored jacket to a white sleeveless knit dress and a pair of closed-toe shoes or booties. You could also try adding a long vest or a boyfriend cardigan. Sometimes you can even add a blouse under your white dress if it is sleeveless, but this is much trickier.

Can You Wear White After Labor Day? (5)

5. Ease into Fall with Off-White

Keep in mind that white in fall doesn’t have to be bright white. Soft white, ivory, or cream make your outfit look more fall/winter-like than stark white.

The bottom line is, if you’re struggling to make a white item work, it’s probably because it’s a summer white. You’re betteroff putting it awayuntil it gets warmer!

What are your feelings about wearing white in the fall and winter? Do you wear it or do you have that old rule stuck in your head?

(Visited 91,671 times, 2 visits today)

Can You Wear White After Labor Day? (2024)

FAQs

Can You Wear White After Labor Day? ›

How We Wear White Today. Of course you can wear white after Labor Day, and it makes perfect sense to do so in climates where September's temperatures are hardly fall-like. It's more about fabric choice today than color.

What is the wearing white after Labor Day rule? ›

How long after Labor Day can you wear white? The rule states that after Labor Day, white should be retired from your wardrobe. Then once Memorial Day rolls around in May, the gates are re-opened.

Can you wear white in the fall? ›

You can absolutely wear white after Labor Day. However, there are some ways to wear white that help it transition to fall more easily.

Is it OK to wear white jeans after Labor Day? ›

Yes, it is TOTALLY OKAY to wear white jeans/pants/shoes after Labor Day. However, there is knack to doing it right. The key is to be sure it looks intentional — not like you forgot to put your summer clothes away.

Who shouldn't wear white after Labor Day? ›

As Labor Day represents the end of summer, the rule was established that you shouldn't wear white after the holiday if you don't have the money to take fall and winter vacations. The no-white rule starts after Labor Day and lifts on Memorial Day on the last Monday of May, at the beginning of summer.

When should I stop wearing white? ›

Why can't you wear white after Labor Day? The old-fashioned decree bans us from wearing white during the winter and spring, from Labor Day in September till May Day (another day designated to celebrate workers' rights). One popular theory dates back to the early 1900s.

Why can't Americans wear white after Labor Day? ›

According to the Farmer's Almanac, the concept of not wearing white after Labor Day started in the 19th century as a way for the upper class to separate themselves from the working class.

Can you wear white year round? ›

Etiquette expert Emily Post agrees that you can wear white every day of the year. The decision is "more about the fabric choice today than color." This rule is evident when thinking about white wool or cable-knit sweaters. Post says to "wear what's appropriate—for the weather, the season, or the occasion."

Can I still wear white pants in October? ›

White jeans are a chic base for an outfit all year-round. Dressing for the climate is always a must, but you can certainly wear your white pants into the fall and beyond.

What months can you wear all white? ›

There is an old rule that says you can't wear white after Labor day. According to this rule, white should be worn from Memorial Day until Labor Day, or only in the summer months.

Can you wear white to a funeral? ›

As a neutral color, white should not be considered inappropriate at most North American funerals. Though you should ask the family hosting the service when in doubt, plain, neutral colors are generally acceptable for memorials. Wearing white in conjunction with other dark tones is absolutely appropriate.

Can you wear white in winter? ›

Wearing white in winter is also a natural choice: it's the color of snow, ice, the soft fur of some animals, of the cold reflections of the light that are so characteristic for the cold season. And it's also a safe style choice that can be incredibly chic, especially in the colder months.

Is it OK to wear white jeans in winter? ›

White jeans are Winter-friendly

White jeans are a great way to make a statement and stay warm in winter. They're also great for those days when you want to look chic, but don't want to sacrifice your style.

When can you start wearing white again? ›

While there are many who still choose to live by the tradition-based guideline that you must wait until Memorial Day to wear white, there are others who favor a different date: Easter. In fact, Easter is sometimes seen as the true mark of being able to break out your best whites, and it does make sense in some ways.

Why can't you wear white to a wedding? ›

It turns out that white is still the main color you can't wear to a wedding. Eighty percent of brides wear white to their wedding, and it's important that a bride stands out at her wedding. Even if it isn't the intent, a guest wearing white can be seen as an attempt to upstage the bride—and that's definitely a no-no.

Can you wear white to a wedding? ›

In general, it's not appropriate for guests to wear white to a wedding. "When you're a guest at a wedding, the most important thing to keep in mind is not to upstage or upset the bride," says wedding dress designer Madeline Gardner. "It's safe to stay away from any outfits that are predominantly white, cream or ivory."

Does white make you look older or younger? ›

Women such as Jane Fonda, Diane Keaton, Martha Stewart, Helen Mirren and Joan Collins all know an effective way to brighten the complexion and look younger is to wear something white, which reflects the light. Knowing your most flattering shade is vital.

Why do people stop wearing white? ›

Prior to the advent of air conditioning, clothing choices were important when trying to keep cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Whites and lighter-weight fabrics were more popular during the warm months, and in the winter, people naturally switched to darker colors and heavier fabrics.

What does it mean if you always wear white? ›

A preference for 'white' color shows innocence. White reflects all other colors. It embraces innocence, peace, virginity, solemn, hope, purity, kindness, consideration, patience, simplicity spirituality, soothing, simplicity and Idealism.

When can you wear white pants in Florida? ›

White Denim Jacket and Jeans

So you can see that white jeans in winter are great for Florida style. Because winter, summer, spring, or fall, white jeans are always a fashion “YES” in Florida!

Can you wear linen after Labor Day? ›

The traditional thinking is, never wear linen clothing before Memorial Day or after Labor Day. While most people adhere to this, there really is no reason – especially in Southern California – not to wear it year round. So, get your “summer” linens out and enjoy the light, airy feeling of this natural fabric.

Can you wear a white dress at night? ›

Yes, you totally can

Who says you can't wear a white dress at night? We get it: White is a risky color in the first place (clumsy girls who spill their wine, beware), but the choice to wear it when it's dark out feels doubly counterintuitive.

Why do people prefer white clothes in summer? ›

We wear light or white coloured clothes in summer because light colour reflect sunlight as well as heat so our body is free from heated up . But in winter we wear dark coloured clothes because dark colour absorb sunlight as well as heat . so our body remains in warm up condition.

When can I not wear white jeans? ›

As long as there's no snow on the ground or oodles of rain puddles, you can wear your white jeans, and wear them proudly. But there are rules to doing this so you don't look too summery, or too wintry. There's a real fine line to this transitional weather stage and making your white jeans work.

Is it okay to wear off white pants in winter? ›

Yes, you can absolutely wear white jeans in the winter! White jeans and pants shouldn't be contained to one season. Winter is the perfect time to dress them up, dress them down, and get extra mileage out of pieces you usually reach for in warmer weather!

Can you wear beige after Labor Day? ›

A: We love beige shoes and bags after Labor Day as long as they are well-coordinated with the rest of your outfit.

Can you wear all white in September? ›

Of course you can wear white after Labor Day, and it makes perfect sense to do so in climates where September's temperatures are hardly fall-like. It's more about fabric choice today than color.

Can I wear black pants and a white top to a funeral? ›

Black is still the safest color for funeral attire, but you don't have to wear solid black. A black suit with a white shirt is acceptable or a dress that's mostly black but has a subtle color in the pattern is also fine to wear.

Is it OK to wear purple to a funeral? ›

If you can't wear black, some staple colors to wear at a funeral are dark and muted tones such as navy blue, charcoal, deep greys, maroons, deep purple, etc.

What color should the deceased wear? ›

1. Why do people wear black to funerals? Nowadays, in much of the western world, wearing black to a funeral is the most common color and is considered a sign of respect. However, the tradition actually dates back to the ancient Romans, when mourners would adopt a darker colored Toga to show they were in mourning.

Can you wear white to Christmas? ›

The perfect white dress

Being a staple winter colour, white dresses are ideal for achieving that chic and elegant Christmas party look, especially when they're paired with gorgeous Moon Magic jewellery.

What color shoes can you wear with winter white? ›

Go bright and bold in cobalt or cherry red, or reach for basic black shoes. __Don't:__Wear white shoes with a winter white outfit.

Can you wear all white for Christmas? ›

Fashion experts answering the question can you wear white in the winter have one clear answer for you: yes, but mix the whites and blend in some light neutral shades as well.

How do you winterize white jeans? ›

You can easily winterize your white jeans with boots, layers, coats, and texture. In fact, it makes winter white look appealing.

What color shoes go best with white jeans? ›

Contrasting colours look the best when it comes to pairing white jeans with shoes. Dark colours such as black shoes, navy trainers and brown shoes set off the bright white jeans really well. Pastel and light shades will make an outfit look light and airy.

What jeans do you wear in winter? ›

4 Best Jeans to Wear Throughout Winter
  • Skinny Jeans. Skinny jeans were once super trendy, but they've since evolved to become absolute classics. ...
  • Black Jeans. A pair of women's black jeans is the ultimate versatile companion for your winter routine. ...
  • Jeggings. ...
  • High Rise Jeans. ...
  • Related Articles.

Can you wear white in December? ›

Now that we've agreed it is acceptable to wear white in winter, let's look at how to do it well. White gives any outfit a breath of freshness. Cream, ivory, beige, snow, off-white, taupe, and soft grey are just some of the winter white shades that work well with any other color and instantly create a bright new mood.

Can I wear white pants in January? ›

Yes, you can absolutely wear white jeans in the winter! White jeans and pants shouldn't be contained to one season. Winter is the perfect time to dress them up, dress them down, and get extra mileage out of pieces you usually reach for in warmer weather!

Can you wear white sneakers in the fall? ›

Yes, you actually can wear white sneakers in the fall and winter. I wore my white sneakers to death this summer. They're so bright and fresh and fun, and now that we're heading into colder weather, lots of you are asking if you can wear white sneakers in the fall. And the answer is, YES YOU CAN.

Is it OK to wear white year round? ›

Etiquette expert Emily Post agrees that you can wear white every day of the year. The decision is "more about the fabric choice today than color." This rule is evident when thinking about white wool or cable-knit sweaters. Post says to "wear what's appropriate—for the weather, the season, or the occasion."

When can you wear white in winter? ›

The perfect counter balance to everything. But there's something so refreshing and uplifting about wearing white in winter. It's free and pure, like an entree to spring's main course. However the Americans have a “fashion rule” that says you can't wear white after Labor Day (the first Monday in September).

Is it OK to wear white at Christmas? ›

Fashion experts answering the question can you wear white in the winter have one clear answer for you: yes, but mix the whites and blend in some light neutral shades as well.

Does wearing white make you look younger? ›

Women such as Jane Fonda, Diane Keaton, Martha Stewart, Helen Mirren and Joan Collins all know an effective way to brighten the complexion and look younger is to wear something white, which reflects the light. Knowing your most flattering shade is vital.

What is the etiquette for wearing white? ›

You can wear white any time of year so long as you match the fabric to the season. Wear white cotton and linen in summer, white wool, crepe, and cashmere in winter. So those are the “rules” for wearing white.

Is it OK to wear white jeans in fall and winter? ›

White jeans are a chic base for an outfit all year-round. Dressing for the climate is always a must, but you can certainly wear your white pants into the fall and beyond.

Can I wear white pants for Christmas? ›

Feel free to wear white any time of year, including winter—one of my favorite ways is to wear white denim.

What shoes do you wear with white jeans in the winter? ›

Boots, preferably in suede or rough-hewn leather, are excellent for taking these pants into fall and winter. Brown, because it's more casual, is generally better than black. And white denim is a great canvas for a hit of metallics or animal prints—two of my favorite ways to depart from the usual neutrals.

Can you wear white ankle boots in the fall? ›

Finish your look off with a leather jacket and a statement bag. Get more use out of your floral dress in the Fall by wearing it with a long denim jacket and white ankle boots. Make your white boots a focal point by styling them with cropped jeans. Add a pop of color with a bright colored jacket.

Can you wear black and white in the fall? ›

Black and white is my go-to all year round but especially so during the fall when I want my outfits to make more of an impact. Black and white is timeless yet bold and can be either as graphic or subdued as you want.

Can I wear white sneakers in the fall and winter? ›

I love white sneakers, and yes, they can be worn year round! Here are four easy ways to wear your white sneakers in the fall and winter.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Rob Wisoky

Last Updated:

Views: 6530

Rating: 4.8 / 5 (68 voted)

Reviews: 83% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Rob Wisoky

Birthday: 1994-09-30

Address: 5789 Michel Vista, West Domenic, OR 80464-9452

Phone: +97313824072371

Job: Education Orchestrator

Hobby: Lockpicking, Crocheting, Baton twirling, Video gaming, Jogging, Whittling, Model building

Introduction: My name is Rob Wisoky, I am a smiling, helpful, encouraging, zealous, energetic, faithful, fantastic person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.