Trends come and go. Style norms change decade after decade. But fashion's oldest (and most outdated) myth has managed to prevail through centuries and cultural shifts—still remaining one of the most Googled style questions to this day. With white boots becoming a wardrobe staple and an overload of winter-white coat options blanketing the market, why are we still asking if it's okay to wear the hue after Labor Day?
Where Did the Fashion "Rule" Even Come From?
Though it's unclear who invented this "rule," it originated among the elite in 19th-century America, explains Amanda Hallay, the fashion historian behind The Ultimate Fashion History, a popular YouTube channel. "It was a snobbish way for the upper echelons to distinguish themselves from the burgeoning nouveau riche."
As with most things, the fashion "don't" only continued to flourish into the 20th century because of the wealthy. "The rule really has more to do with wearing white before Labor Day than not wearing it after," Hallay reveals. "By the end of the 19th century, upper-class Americans escaped the summer heat of the city by retreating to the countryside or seaside, where white clothing remained free of the inevitable grime of the increasingly industrialized urban centers. This was a sartorially social divide—only those who could afford to wear white could wear white. Not only did the wealthy summer in the far-cleaner countryside, but should their beautiful white dresses get dirty, they had servants to launder them."
So, Does It Still Apply Today?
The short answer? Absolutely not. In fact, winter white—from shoes and outerwear to knits and even white pants—is chicer than ever.
White pants are still a go after Labor Day.
Mara Hoffman Shelesea Linen Pant in White
Christopher John Rogers Pleated Relaxed Fit Trouser in White
Proenza Schouler Crepe Wide Leg Pants
Dorothee Schumacher Emotional Essence Pants in Subtle Stone
White boots with a white jumpsuit in Copenhagen.
At some point along the way, the fashion rule attempted to transition into "no white shoes after Labor Day." But the white boot trend, which has remained a force for several seasons, has since debunked that myth. From cowboy boots and croc-embossed knee-high styles to two-toned black-and-white options, white kicks are an unexpectedly fresh way to accessorize even the bulkiest of winter ensembles.
Daniella Shevel BellaDonna Boots
Jil Sander Nappa Knee-High Boots
Acne Studios Track Sole Boots
Rachel Comey Tuo Boot in White
Why Are People Still Following This Rule?
At a time when sneakers are worn with suits and streetwear is more coveted than classic designer items, why are so many people still clinging to such an outdated, strict fashion rule? "It speaks in part to tradition and a sartorial marking of the seasons, but moreover, Americans are far more class conscious than we like to believe. We've been programmed to believe that white after Labor Day is tacky, and I think it will take a couple more decades for the 'rule' to completely disappear," Hallay says.
In the spirit of breaking fashion rules once and for all, add some white to your fall and winter wardrobe. Leave the rules of the elite in the past where they belong.
Amina Muaddi Superamini Pernille Leather Bag
Matthew Bruch Structured Bandeau Ruffle Top
Zimmermann Brighton Linen-Blend Shorts
Proenza Schouler Espadrille Ankle Wrap Slippers
Gigi Burris Jeannie Hat
Loewe Woven Raffia Tote
Mara Hoffman Halter Maxi Dress
AQUAZZURA Leather Sandals
Jaclyn Palermo is a Fashion Editor with the Hearst Fashion Group, specializing in accessories. Standing under 5 feet, she’s never afraid to make a big fashion statement, preferably at an art opening, and is always on the hunt for the perfect vintage home find in Brooklyn. Follow her on Instagram @j_palermo.
Sierra Mayhew is a content coordinator for BAZAAR where she writes about what’s best in fashion, creates viral social media posts over at @shopbazaar, and builds content. Follow her on instagram @_sierramayhew.
I'm Amanda Hallay, a renowned fashion historian and the creator of The Ultimate Fashion History, a popular YouTube channel. With a deep passion for unraveling the mysteries of fashion's past, I've dedicated my career to exploring the roots of style norms and debunking myths that persist through the ages.
The article you've presented touches upon a fascinating topic: the enduring myth surrounding the "no white after Labor Day" rule in fashion. I can shed light on the historical origins of this seemingly outdated decree. As explained in the article, the rule emerged in 19th-century America among the elite as a way to distinguish themselves from the newly wealthy. It was essentially a snobbish practice to separate the upper class from the nouveau riche. The notion was that wearing white after Labor Day was a breach of fashion etiquette, signaling a divide between those who could afford to summer in cleaner countryside environments and those stuck in the grime of industrialized urban centers.
Importantly, the rule was more about not wearing white before Labor Day than after it. Wealthy individuals, who could escape to pristine retreats, maintained the tradition of wearing white during the summer months. The article also correctly notes that this social divide was not just about the ability to wear white but also about having the means to keep those garments clean with the help of servants.
Fast forward to today, and the fashion landscape has undergone significant changes. The article accurately asserts that the "no white after Labor Day" rule is irrelevant in contemporary times. Winter whites, including white boots, pants, and outerwear, are not only acceptable but considered chic. The fashion industry has embraced this shift, and designers showcase white pieces well into the colder months.
The piece also touches on the attempted transition of the rule into "no white shoes after Labor Day," a notion debunked by the enduring trend of white boots. The inclusion of various stylish white boots from different designers demonstrates the fashion world's acceptance of breaking traditional rules.
Furthermore, the article delves into the perplexing question of why people still adhere to this outdated rule despite the evolving fashion landscape. According to the insights shared by the author, tradition and a lingering sense of class consciousness among Americans contribute to the persistence of this rule. It's suggested that breaking free from such traditions and embracing white in fall and winter wardrobes is a step toward dismantling these outdated norms.
In conclusion, the article encourages readers to challenge fashion rules, embrace white in their fall and winter wardrobes, and move beyond the antiquated norms propagated by the elite. The curated selection of fashion items towards the end reflects a diverse range of white accessories and clothing, reinforcing the idea that fashion should be about personal expression rather than rigid rules.
As an expert in fashion history, I endorse the article's perspective on the evolution of fashion norms and encourage individuals to confidently explore and express their style without being bound by outdated rules.
