Can You Wear White After Labor Day? We've Got the Answer Ahead of The Holiday!

Macie Reynolds

May 25, 2023 at 4:45 PM·5 min read

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You might just be starting to pull out your vacation dresses and blousy tops ahead of the first day of summer, but before you know it, Labor Day weekend will be right around the corner. Trust us, we're not trying to rush it—but the summer months just go by so quickly!

Soon, the dog days of summer will be upon us and you'll be firing up the grill for your last cookout of the season while preparing for all things autumn. But before we usher in the first day of fall, we've got some inside tips to keep you ahead of next season's fashion curve. That's because the federal holiday unofficially marks the end of summer, it's also known as the date to put away all things white until next season.

We've all been warned about the fashion faux pas of wearing white after Labor Day. Well, we're here to tell you that some rules are meant to be broken. Seriously, it’s a thing of the past! Take it from the Pioneer Woman herself: "I'm not big on seasonal fashion rules ('no white after Labor Day,' for example)," Ree Drummond says. So, if you're not looking forward to packing away your white button-down shirts anytime soon, read on for all the reasons why you don't actually have to!

Who started no wearing white after Labor Day?

So, what's the history behind this out-of-date decree? It's actually more interesting than you'd think. According to the Farmer's Almanac, the concept of not wearing white after Labor Day started in the 19th century as a way for the upper class to separate themselves from the working class. Some historians say brighter clothing was worn by affluent groups who could afford to leave town for a warmer coast when the leaves began to change. Subsequently, it became socially accepted that those who didn't have the money to take fall and winter vacations shouldn't don white after the last summer holiday.

Another reason? Laborers typically wore dark clothing to hide the dirty evidence of a hard day's work. Meanwhile, the wealthy didn't have to worry about staining their white clothes. (You learn something new every day, right?)

So, can you wear white after Labor Day?

Long story short, this arbitrary fashion no-no is now a go! So, instead of retiring those whites when the temperatures start to drop, embrace them! Here's how to do it in style:

Mind your fabrics.

As much as we love a breezy linen piece, it's just not practical for those cooler months. When wearing white in winter, you'll want to stick to thicker fabrics like cashmere and knits. Think: all the sweater dresses! And one of the best ways to wear white throughout the year? Denim outfits! A pair of white jeans is a summer classic but can easily be styled with boots for the fall. Mix-and-match your fabrics in similar shades for a chic monochromatic ensemble.

Shake up the shades.

Speaking of shades, white doesn't have to be, well, plain white! As autumn settles in, neutrals will become your best friend. Instead of sticking to a stark white palette, add beige, cream, and ivory to your outfits for a warmer, cozier look. And don't be afraid of a pop of color! For example, a bright red scarf or rich purple hat can transition your white outfit from summer to fall.

Layer it up.

Speaking of outerwear, try donning white in jean jackets, sweaters, and cozy cardigans. Layering isn't only functional, it's also fashion-forward! So if you're looking for the simplest way to make your ensemble a bit more seasonably appropriate, this is it. Extend some of your summer favorites, like a white tank or shirt, by adding a blazer or coat on top. You can even throw on a plaid flannel shirt for a cozy fall feel!

Just have fun!

The number one rule of wearing white after Labor Day is to have fun with it! You look your best when you wear what makes you happy—that's The Pioneer Woman way! While you're here, check out these items from Ree's clothing line that you can wear season after season.