To Wear Or Not To Wear White After Labor Day?

We know not to mix our whites with colors, and we're told not to mix them with seasons. But, is not wearing white after Labor Day becoming a washed-up rule now?

If there were 10 commandments of fashion, “Thou Shalt Not Wear White After Labor Day,” would arguably be one of the top three. But as top American designers and fashion icons err on the side of risk-taking and bold statements, modern fashion is defying restrictive style traditions and celebrating personal, out-of-the-box, discretion.

Even with the fashion industry taking a stance against the Labor Day rule, among so many others, like wearing boots only during fall/winter and mix-matching patterns and colors, are Hoboken residents eagerly jumping on the bandwagon?

“I think a white shirt (after Labor Day) is okay,” said Amanda Katement, Hoboken resident, “but, white pants, or a white purse? No. For some reason, white pants and purses after labor day seems weird. I can't explain it.”

Strays of white shorts, tops and sandals still lingered along Hoboken streets nearly mid-way through September, suggesting some residents dress to the beat of their own drum, not the fashion calendar.

“I don't think there is anything wrong with a white top, or even white accessories,” Katemen said.

In fact, several boutiques in town have displays and mannequins with elements of white infused with new fall looks. Subtle flares, like a white scarf, purse, necklace, belt, or layering tank, can break the monotony of fall colors.

Although the lines of fashion do's and don'ts are becoming blurrier as fashion evolves and progresses, women, and men, in town are still somewhat hesitant to test the waters.

“I would say I adhere to the rule”, said Hoboken resident, Erin Muller, “even though it's such a shame to put my fabulous white jeans and white bag in the back of my closet until next year. I wish I lived by the rules are meant to be broken mentality!”

The fall season is the real victim when it comes to Labor Day fashion crime & punishment.  

It doesn't seem to be okay to wear white until well into the month of December, when it's officially winter and white becomes known as "winter white." Then miraculously, white attire is a classic, demure style choice for the season, (although it's still after Labor Day).

If bright-colored pants, like neon green and hot pink, are a trend for this fall and winter, there is no reason to exclude white. You don't have to put your favorite white bag away as soon as September and October roll around.  

There are so many ways to incorporate fall elements in to your outfit even if white is the main focus.  Scarves, blazers , jewelry, and layering are smart, chic ways to tie in any color you want to wear.