From the moment Fall semester began, we have all been awaiting Labor Day Weekend. Not only is it the first long weekend of the semester, but it also gives many the excuse to BBQ and drink all day! However, if you're anything like me- you don't really know why we "celebrate" Labor day. The only thing I really know about Labor Day is we aren't supposed to wear white afterwards, but I don't even understand that to be honest.

To start, Labor Day became a federal holiday in 1894 as a response to the labor movement of the 19th century. During this time, the Industrial Revolution was taking off, and as we all probably remember from high school history, everyone was working so hard - it was basically killing. Women, men, and children commonly worked long hours in horrible factory conditions, with little to no breaks, and very minimum compensation. As populations began to increase, and conditions continued to worsen, workers began to revolt in what resulted in the addition of many safety regulations within factories, such as the 8 hour work day and child labor regulations. Most importantly, Labor Day resulted from this movement as a way to commensurate the hard work conducted by workers throughout the year.

But why aren't we allowed to wear white after Labor Day?

Well, just like Labor Day, the prohibition on white past Labor Day is thought to represent the transition from summer into fall. You see, during the 19th century everyone wore formal, often very hot, clothing. Therefore, during the summer months, many wore white to stay cool, but once fall starts rolling in, everyone would begin reverting back to their dark fall clothing.

The thing is, I live in Florida, and here it is still Summer well into December, so really the no white after Labor Day doesn't apply to us here.