“A classic white shirt is the ne plus ultra of good taste.” – Tim Gunn

When asked the question, “Can you wear white after Labor Day?” the short answer is, “Absolutely!” Let me back up 100 years or so and explain how this myth came to be. Think back to every picture you’ve seen of a city in the 1930’s or around that time period. Are you picturing dark clothing? Men in long coats, women in dark dresses? The every day city life had a dress code and people abode by the dress code. When they would escape the city to travel to their vacation home on the coast, they left their formal clothes at home and packed their “vactionwear” aka leisure wear. Vacationwear consisted of their white linen clothing, Panama hats, etc. The summer season was clearly known as being between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

Now, in modern times, it can still be a confusing topic to many. What is more important to consider when dressing is the fabric choice, not necessarily the color. The linen and light silks probably need to be stored away until Summer, but there are so many ways to wear white after Labor Day. Below, I’ve shared 10 ways to wear white after Labor Day. Enjoy!

1. White Top

As a rule of thumb, you’ll want to stay away from anything that is too breezy or summery. If your first thought is, “I should pack that on my next beach trip,” then maybe it needs to sit the next six months out. But, a nice blouse paired with black pants or denim is perfect for the fall months.

As Tim Gunn reminds us, it is imperative to have at least one white classic top. And, once you find the one, you’ll want to wear it year round.

Click here to see how I styled a white button down 10 different ways.

2. White Sleeveless Sweater

It’s like part summer, part winter. But in reality, totally appropriate to wear this time of year – just leave the espadrilles and straw tote at home.

3. White Loafers

I am obsessed with all of these. They are so classy and would be perfect to wear to work!

4. White Denim

Try pairing with a sweater or vest, or even a chambray top to give it that fall feel.

5. White Trousers

White trousers can be absolutely stunning. I once saw a lady wearing white trousers with a beautiful white coat at a Christmas party and couldn’t stop staring. Again, this is all about the fabric – leave the linen at home. And do a double check that they aren’t see through.

6. White Blazer

You know I’m a blazer girl, and having a versatile white blazer in your closet is something you need. Wear to work or to brunch, but what matters is how you accessorize it.

7. Monochrome

I love a good monochrome look. Going white or a version of white, such as off-white or ivory, can be absolutely lovely in the fall. To break it up a little and give it a fall-ish edge, try mixing in brown boots or a belt.

8. LWD with Slouchy Boots

Slouchy boots are back! Throw on that LWD with the pair of slouchy boots you have from 10 years ago and you are ready to go!

9. White Cable Knit Sweater

Such a classic. End of story.

10. White and Black

Try mixing it up a little – like this white tulle skirt with a black top. Or try a print – ever heard of houndstooth or zebra or buffalo plaid 🙂

In closing, I hope you now feel confident to wear your white all year long. Remember, when it comes to white, it’s the fabric that makes something spring/summer vs. fall/winter.

Cheers – MP