Come that first dreadful Monday of September, pale threads get packed away along with summer days and carefree memories. We all know we aren’t supposed to wear white after Labor Day – but why?
Time offers two possible explanations for the fashion phenomenon: practicality and symbolism.
This age-old rule may have been implemented simply because it was the sensible thing to do. Rising temperatures of summer heat waves trap warmth under clothing. Wearing white in the summer was not only stylish, it was practical; rather than absorb the sun and burn your skin, lighter colors reflected those rays to keep you cool.
Once summer ended, this trend was no longer necessary. The white clothing got tucked away for the season in lieu of fur coats and leather boots to keep the sleek city folk comfortable. Thus, the informal law was born: Once Labor Day hit, it was time to say goodbye to those light colors and hello to dark autumn tones.
An alternative theory circles around the pervasive symbolism of the light colors. Those with wealth often vacationed for the warmer months, trading their city lives for beach holidays in summer homes or lavish hotels. They packed light (literally). On these trips, travelers would wear white clothing to embrace their freedom and show off their high cultural status.
Summer’s end marked the end of this reality recess. Rather than cling to these threads of freedom, fashion savvy women let them go – for a few seasons at least. Changing out of white clothing with the passing of Labor Day shifted their mentality from play to pay, easing their adjustment to their lives back to the big metropolis.
While many experts speculate, no theory about the origin of this tradition has been confirmed. However the trend came about, covers of fashion magazines and etiquette books perpetuated this ideal. Which brings us to today: a modern, progressive climate where fashionistas still pause before walking out the door in white clothing once Labor Day hits. What’s a gal to do?
Emily Post Institute, a stickler for tradition, has budged on its “No White After Labor Day” addendum. While they acknowledge that indulging in white tones is not a taboo activity anymore, they urge you to “wear what’s appropriate – for the weather, the season, or the occasion” and adapt your wardrobe accordingly. Bustle challenges you to embrace the rebellion by donning cream tones or pairing a white ensemble with black accents for a fresh fall look (that isn’t too forward).
So if you’re back to school shopping or on the prowl for new work attire, don’t be afraid to pick out a formally taboo white ensemble. As long as the material doesn’t clash with heavy rainfall or blustery winds, you shouldn’t receive any snobby side-glances. Just be sure to keep it clean – white is only chic when it’s free of coffee stains.
