White Pants for Labor Day

Ah, Labor Day. The unofficial mark of the end of summer, though not for me, I being in Phoenix may enjoy summer for 2 more months {sad face}…

I know it's a little late, but let's talk something about not wearing white post Labor Day -

In many parts of the United States, a rule about not wearing white after Labor Day, which takes place on the first Monday in September, is heavily ingrained. The roots of the idea that people should not wear white after Labor Day appear to be shrouded in mystery, and the rule has been greatly relaxed since the 1950s and 1960s, when it was more heavily enforced. People who choose to wear white after Labor Day are no longer heavily criticized for the choice, and are sometimes embraced as fashion forward trendsetters.

There are several theories about the rule which governs people who wear white after Labor Day. A fashion design student shared the history of this unusual tradition which was told by one of the professors in the college.

Before heaters were invented, people shoveled coal to heat buildings. It was traditional for men to wear white or light colored suits. The soot from the coal would get all over them and stain their nice clothes. So they changed their wardrobe around Labor Day, when the weather typically starts to get cool. This practice turned into tradition, into rule, into the faux pas, into where it is now.

The rules are more relaxed today, but depending on where you live, you may get a gasp about your taboo outfit if you choose to wear white after Labor Day.

P.S. This is a tradition that's only followed in the US of A. In the rest of the world Labor Day falls at different times of the year.

Whatever the origins of the idea, restrictions on people who wear white after Labor Day appear to be outmoded except in very traditional society. Many fashion designers offer white as part of their fall and winter lines, often in stunning pieces. In warmer areas of the United States such as Hawaii and Florida, white is also a more acceptable color to wear year round, since unfavorable winter weather is not as much of an issue.

Like many other seemingly idiosyncratic fashion rules, the reasoning behind the ban on wearing white after Labor Day has probably faded from the public mind. For most people, it is safe to wear white after Labor Day, although they may want to consider wearing the color in moderation. In inclement weather, a more sensible color which does not show stains or water is advised.

Otherwise, wear white after Labor Day as often as you like!!

Cheers

Ritika

Tank: Target

Pants: Fame Forever

Denim Jacket: Mango

Shoes: Metro

Watch: Michael Kors