Everyone has heard the no-white-after-Labor-Day rule, but is it still applicable in today’s society? Back in the 50’s, wearing white after Labor Day was completely out of the question. Over time, the rule has become a little irrelevant as some people have started seeing wearing white year round as a fashion-forward and innovative move. Today, our society is a mix between people who continue to actively follow this old rule and people who have never even heard of it.

I’ve always been told never to wear white after Labor Day and before Memorial Day, but I just assumed that meant I couldn’t wear anything white at all. However, in the past the rule was only applicable to certain pieces of clothing. For example, white shoes were considered unacceptable after Labor Day but less because of their color and more because of the fact that appropriate winter shoes usually weren’t white. Furthermore, white dresses were typically prohibited also because they weren’t suitable for colder weather. This explains why it’s considered less taboo to wear white after Labor Day if you’re in a warm climate.

Basically what it comes down to is that white has traditionally been a summer color. According to most sources, it is acceptable to wear certain white staples, like jeans or tops, year round. However other pieces of clothing, such as jackets or shoes fall into the off-limits category. Historically, the only people who aren’t expected to follow the no white after Labor Day rule are brides. They’re allowed to wear whatever color, even white, on their wedding days no matter what time of the year it is. It is also considered acceptable to wear off-white after Labor Day and before Memorial Day. So, what does this mean?

In today’s society, you will most likely not be called out for wearing any white clothing after Labor Day. With that being said, there are still people who follow this rule religiously. So, it may be best to think about who you’ll be around before deciding to break a rule that has lasted so long. Still, when it comes to fashion you should be able to express yourself however you wish. Ultimately, if you want to wear white then you shouldn’t let a made up rule stop you. Because, in reality, nothing bad will actually happen if you wear white year round.