For decades, the main fashion rule was nobody should be wearing white after Labor Day. But with different styles and trends, white clothing has been increasing based on individuals rather than the rules. Ever since the 19th century, the myth was white shouldn’t be worn based on being offensive. Is this an old, wise tale still relevant? Should there be a “no white after Labor Day”?

“I like wearing white. White keeps me cool in the summer and it goes with everything,” said Hailey Stadler.

This debate has been going on since the 19th century because people thought they should look differently compared to the working class. During this time period, white was symbolized by being perfect or being truthful. But now, white is represented by looks and how hot or cold it is.

Labor Day is marked as the official end of summer, and wearing white beyond that date was found to be inappropriate and disrespectful. But over time, the color white has become a fashion statement. But with the evolution of trends and a more variety of personal expression. 

“White cannot be worn because it’s not keeping you warm,” Diamond Johann said. “It can get dirty easily and it doesn’t symbolize anything.”

As the weather starts to transfer into cooler temperatures in the fall and winter, light colored fabrics like cotton and linen are less warming. Instead, people would rather wear more of the richer fabrics like wool and darker colors.

This came into the early 20th century from looking at the seasons of colors. By having a lighter color, the color is reflected and makes yourself cool or hot. The darker the color, the more heat it will be.

This made people wonder why this tradition is a thing? Should we let go and break away from these “traditions?”

“People can do whatever they want and wear whatever they want. White is a color and let’s move on,” said Michelle Peterson. 

Social media has become a huge rise on why white can be worn after Labor Day and with more individualism, people are wanting to be themselves and show the will power on why people can wear white. White can be represented in different ways, but over time, it’s now just a color.

The meaning for “no white after Labor Day” is a rule tradition. But in today’s world, there’s many changes going on around the globe. Fashion trends come and go in a blink of an eye and some find comfort in sticking to established guidelines.

Peterson also continued, “It’s 2024, let us be ourselves and let’s go on with our lives.”

As fashion continues to evolve, the debate will constantly continue on why or why not we should be wearing white after Labor Day. Should it be in the past, or do we let the tradition live? Until then, the choice is yours! If you would like to stick to tradition or break the tradition by wearing white into the winter months. After all, confidence is the most stylish trend of all.