There are one too many rules in the book of fashion, but one you won’t be following this year is “no white after labor day.” According to Time, this rule began with practical reasons. Its purpose was to help people stay cool during the summer, then transition to darker clothes in the colder months. On top of this, in the early to mid-twentieth century, New York fashion editors didn’t want to wear white while dealing with heavy rainfall and mud. White was also considered to be a leisurely look and symbol of those who were well-off. Secret meanings or not, here are various ways to look your best in white after labor day!
Pair a White Top and Bottom Set with a Kimono
Pairing a set of solid white top and bottoms with a print will bring attention to the kimono. A fall pattern or colored kimono makes this all-white look more than appropriate for the season.
Get the Look: Everlane The Wide Leg Crop Utility Pant ($68), Free People Intimately FP Solid Rib Brami Top ($11), Forever 21 Floral Kimono ($35)
Channel Your Inner Girl Boss with a White Suit
One of the best go-to business looks is a power suit, so why not wear one that’s white? Buttoned up, this striped suit is perfect for an interview. For a more casual look, pair overtop a black bralette.
Get The Look: Lord and Taylor Stripe Suit ($145), Urban Outfitters Black Bralette ($10), Lulu’s Black Closed Toe Heels ($37), Urban Outfitters Circle Straw Cross-body Bag ($59)
Use Patterns to Spruce up an Everyday Outfit
Polka dot print always adds more fun to a look. Wearing white pants with a polka dot overlay is a unique way to incorporate both the pattern and white without feeling too over the top. Try styling them with a crop mock-neck tank top, along with a short trench coat, and espadrilles.
Get the Look: Asos Polka Dot Mom Jeans ($30), H&M Corduroy Jacket ($20), Forever 21 Turtleneck Top ($10)
Play with Textures for a Formal Look
A body shaping bias drape, soft fur, and a structured blazer all make this look unique. Wearing multiple pieces in the same color but composed of different fabrics creates visual interest!
Get the Look: Forever 21 Crochet-Trim Maxi Dress ($33), H&M Fluffy Sweater ($25), Target Wrap Blazer ($40)
Style a Linen Dress for Soft and Elegant Ensemble
Linen is soft to the touch and durable, but it’s far from a heavy material. This white and beige striped, button-down dress is paired perfectly with a woven belt to keep the look simple and toned down. This look is ideal for fall days that still feel a bit like summer.
Get the Look: Urban Outfitters Wrap Dress ($59), or Free People Midi Dress ($70), Express Reversible Belt ($21), South Moon Under Y Necklace ($24)
Mix in a Graphic T-Shirt for an Effortless Look
You may already have quite a few white graphic T-shirts to choose from, but instead of the usual indigo denim, try white jeans to wear as bottoms. Finish this look off with some snazzy shoes and all your Instagram shots will turn out great. Especially if you’re posing in front of an all-white background!
Get the Look: Tilly’s White Rainbow Ringer Tee ($11), American Eagle High-Waisted Crop Flare Jeans ($35), Steve Madden Black Stud Mule ($90)
Step Up Your Layering Game with Different Sleeve Lengths
As we transition from summer to fall, wearing layers will be inevitable. Having this off-the-shoulder top peeking out from underneath the sleeveless dress makes for a compelling look.
Get the Look: Sleeveless Dress ($25), H&M White off the Shoulder Top ($10), Gap Leopard Belt ($35), Urban Outfitters Beaded Mini Tote Bag ($34), Adidas Stan Smith Velcro Strap Sneakers ($100)
Keep Things Simple and Add a Touch of White
Being a rule breaker and wearing all-white after labor day is not a fashion must. But it can be fun adding a few subtly white pieces. These white boots are the highlight of the outfit, and complement the deep blacks and blues nicely.
Get the Look: Steve Madden Trista White Booties ($130), Levi’s Straight Jeans ($98), Asos High-Neck Lace Top ($32), Asos Black Leather Jacket ($143)
Opening image by Sammy Nap
How will you be incorporating white after labor day? Show us on social media! Don’t forget to tag @cfashionista.
