Is No White After Labor Day Fact or Fiction? Here’s What the Experts Say
As Labor Day approaches, a common fashion-related question arises: “Can you wear white after Labor Day?” This federal holiday, observed on the first Monday of September (September 5 this year), celebrates the contributions of workers and the labor movement, and also marks the unofficial end of summer and the beginning of fall.
The Origin of the Rule
The notion that you shouldn’t wear white after Labor Day has its roots in the late 19th century. This “rule” was reportedly created by an elite group to distinguish between the wealthy and the less affluent. Wealthy Americans, who would leave the cities for warmer vacation spots at the end of summer, would wear white clothing that required special care. Those who remained in the city, typically from lower economic backgrounds, wore darker attire.
Jacob Remes, an associate professor at New York University’s Gallatin School of Individualized Study and a specialist in U.S. labor history, explains, “In the days before washing machines, keeping clothes white implied having a servant to maintain them.” Thus, white clothing became a symbol of wealth and leisure, further separating the upper class from the working class.
Is the Rule Still Relevant?
Today, the rule is often viewed as outdated and classist. Marie Claire has criticized the rule as “unconvincing” and encourages wearing white if it suits your style, regardless of the time of year. The magazine emphasizes that adhering to this rule is not necessary and should not be seen as a sign of disrespect.
Some advocate for completely abandoning the rule. Author A.J. Jacobs argues, “One theory is that it was a rule by the elite to separate themselves from the masses. I say we ditch this artificial rule. Wear white anytime you damn please! Be like Tom Wolfe or Emily Dickinson if you want, and wear white every day of the year.”
In practice, the rule is often mentioned in jest rather than as a serious guideline. Remes notes, “In conversation, people might jokingly reference the rule if someone wears white after Labor Day, but it’s not something anyone takes seriously, at least in my social circles.”
So, if you enjoy wearing white, there’s no need to restrict it to summer months. Embrace your personal style year-round, and wear what makes you feel good.
