Can I Wear White After Labor Day?

No rule is made to be broken more than a fashion rule. And if you’ve spent your life hearing about the “no white after Labor Day” rule and wondered why, you’re not alone. The idea that you can’t wear white clothing after the U.S. holiday in September is a fashion myth, and stylist Rebekah Roy agrees. “Call it winter white, ecru, eggshell, optic white, or whatever name you want to give it, but the rules of wearing white after Labor Day are just outdated,” she says. “One thing remains unchanged: White is still the epitome of true luxury.” Roy loves, in particular, an all-white winter look with a creamy coat. 

So, how can you incorporate white into your post-Labor Day wardrobe? Roy suggests starting by finding the perfect shade of white to complement your skin tone and undertone. A good rule of thumb is “winter and pure white for cooler tones, ecru or eggshell for warmer tones,” she says. From there, choose more cold weather-friendly white fabrics. Trade the linen pants for ones made of wool, wool-acrylic, or cotton-acrylic; go for cozy white knits; and even add a white leather accessory or two. Forget the rules — fashion is supposed to be fun.