Why no white after Labor Day?

Answer 1

Originally, the rule was more along the lines of "Only wear white shoes between Memorial Day and Labor Day." Furthermore, it mainly applied to white pumps or dress shoes. White tennis shoes and off-white boots seem exempt, as are any shoes worn by a winter bride. "Winter white" clothing (e.g., cream-colored wool) is acceptable between Labor Day and Memorial Day too.

The only logical reasoning we could find cited temperature. Image consultant Nancy Penn suggests that because white reflects light and heat, wearing white would make you cooler in winter, and thus should be avoided. But others suggest the rule stems from a class issue. Acting Director of the Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology Valerie Steele notes that in the late 19th century and the 1950s, more people were entering the middle classes. These nouveau-riche folks were often unaware of the standards of high society, so they were given specific codified rules to follow in order to fit in.

Several sites quoted a charming refrain about G.R.I.T.S. -- girls raised in the South. This bit of folklore states, "Southern girls know bad manners when they see them," and a clear sign of bad manners is wearing white shoes before Easter or after Labor Day. Because fashions in the American South can be a little more formal than elsewhere, perhaps the no-white-shoes rule came from south of the Mason-Dixon Line? Even Star Jones (an otherwise fashion-forward Southern lady) admits that white shoes "are for Easter Sunday and not the dead of winter."

We can only surmise that the point of this rule is to ensure that people only wear summer fashions during the actual summer months. The opposite probably applies as well, but people generally don't need to be reminded to avoid wearing a goose-down parka in 100-degree weather. If you live in a locale with summer temperatures year-round, we can't see the harm in wearing white shoes or a head-to-toe white outfit in October. And we promise not to tell Miss Manners.

Answer 2

Ok that was then, this is now. This was something from an older generation. Yes indeed you see more dark colors during the fall and winter months but nothing says you can't wear white after a certain day of the year. If you choose to wear white after labor day just pair it with some color as well.

Answer 3

I wear white after Labor Day because when you think about it it's always after Labor Day.

Answer 4

Originally the "no white after Labor Day" rule was in effect to keep clothes cleaner. Fall and winter months were wetter (rain and snow), thusly muddier. So with no paved streets or sidewalks, you got dirtier faster. Now with advances in public transport and laundry methods, the rule is a little out-dated.

Answer 5

Because bright white shoes, handbag, accessories are considered summer wear and Labor Day as the close of summer.

Answer 6

In Florida where I live we wear white all year. There is no rule that says you can't. If you like it, wear it. The fashion police are too busy with other hideous fashion faux pas to be concerned.

Answer 7

i dunt know but i still wear white after labor day

Answer 8

I think it's just supposed to represent the end of the summer...white seems like a summer color, but I think it's now taken loosely.

Answer 9

I heard it was way back when.. the men coming back form war would know which girls were virgins (hence the white) or at least available.
No idea if it's true or not??

Answer 10

I really do not think this applies anymore. Look at all the white winter coats that are out nowadays.