For years, the idea of wearing white after Labor Day was a strict, unbreakable fashion rule. Originating from the early 20th century, this guideline was less about style and more about class distinctions. Wealthier classes would retreat from the hot city life to vacation homes, where light, breezy white fabrics were worn in the summer months. Labor Day marked the return to the city, where darker, heavier clothing was deemed more appropriate. But it’s 2024, and this outdated fashion rule is far behind us.

Today, fashion is about self-expression, individuality, and breaking old rules. White is no longer reserved for summer—it can be worn year-round. In fact, white is one of the most versatile and timeless colors in any wardrobe, and with a few smart styling tips, you can effortlessly incorporate white into your fall and winter outfits. Here’s how to wear white after Labor Day and make it a part of your cold-weather wardrobe.

1. Swap Lightweight Fabrics for Cozy Textures

One of the reasons white was traditionally avoided after Labor Day was because it was associated with light, summer fabrics like linen and cotton. But to wear white during the cooler months, all you need to do is switch up the materials.

• Chunky Knit Sweaters: A white or cream-colored cable-knit sweater is a perfect cozy piece for fall and winter. It feels fresh, clean, and warm, making it ideal for layering.
• Wool and Cashmere: Opt for wool or cashmere coats and scarves in shades of white, ivory, or cream. These fabrics add a luxurious touch and keep you warm during colder months.
• Corduroy and Denim: For bottoms, white or off-white corduroy pants or denim can provide structure and warmth while keeping your outfit seasonally appropriate.

2. Embrace White Outerwear

One of the boldest and most stylish ways to wear white after Labor Day is with outerwear. A white or cream-colored coat can instantly elevate your entire outfit and add a sense of elegance to your cold-weather look.

• Style Tip: Pair a long white wool coat with black boots and dark jeans for a striking contrast that looks modern and sophisticated. A white coat over a monochrome outfit in earth tones can also create a fresh fall look.
• Types of Outerwear: Trench coats, puffer jackets, or tailored overcoats in white or winter white hues are perfect for breaking the “no white after Labor Day” myth.

3. Monochromatic White Look

Wearing all white, even in fall and winter, can be incredibly chic and fashion-forward. Monochromatic outfits give off an effortlessly polished vibe, especially when layered with different textures.

• How to Wear It: Layer a white turtleneck with white trousers and a long white coat for a striking all-white look. You can break up the ensemble with accessories in neutral tones like tan, gray, or camel to keep the outfit grounded in fall hues.
• Pro Tip: Mix and match shades of white—think ivory, cream, and off-white—to add dimension to your monochromatic outfit without it looking flat or too summery.

4. Play with Layers and Contrast

If you’re worried that an all-white outfit will feel too summery, play with layering and contrasting darker pieces to keep it season-appropriate.

• Style Tip: Pair white jeans with a black turtleneck or a dark, textured sweater. Layer with a camel coat or a brown leather jacket for a fall-ready look. Adding darker or neutral-colored accessories like boots, bags, or scarves can balance the brightness of white while keeping the outfit grounded.
• Why It Works: The contrast between white and darker fall colors like burgundy, olive green, and navy creates a visually interesting look that feels cozy and appropriate for cooler months.

5. Incorporate White Accessories

If you’re still hesitant about diving headfirst into a white-dominant outfit after Labor Day, start with accessories. White accessories are an easy way to make a subtle statement while adding freshness to your wardrobe.

• White Boots: White ankle boots or knee-high boots are a trendy way to incorporate white into your fall wardrobe. Pair them with dark denim or a flowy fall dress to create a balanced look.
• White Handbags: A white leather handbag or crossbody bag can add a sophisticated touch to a fall outfit without feeling out of place. It also complements the richer colors and textures of fall fashion.
• Scarves and Hats: Cozy up with white scarves, beanies, or gloves to brighten up darker outfits and add a pop of winter white.

6. White Denim Year-Round

One of the easiest ways to wear white after Labor Day is by embracing white denim as a year-round staple. White jeans can be just as versatile in fall and winter as they are in summer, depending on how you style them.

• Style Tip: Pair white denim with oversized sweaters, boots, and layered outerwear for a cozy fall look. A chunky knit cardigan or a plaid flannel shirt layered over a white tee and white jeans makes for a balanced, seasonally appropriate outfit.
• Winter White Jeans: For colder months, opt for thicker white denim or off-white shades to avoid the breezy summer feel. The added thickness will also help keep you warm when temperatures drop.

7. Break the Rules with Confidence

The most important thing about wearing white after Labor Day is embracing the confidence to break fashion rules. Today’s style is all about self-expression and personal flair, and wearing white in the cooler months challenges outdated norms. If you love how white looks and feels in fall or winter, wear it with confidence.

• Pro Tip: Own the look with confidence. Whether it’s a white coat, boots, or an all-white outfit, wearing it proudly is the key to pulling off white after Labor Day.

The rule against wearing white after Labor Day is nothing more than an old-fashioned guideline that no longer applies to modern style. White is a versatile, timeless color that can brighten up the darker, muted tones of fall and winter wardrobes. From cozy white sweaters to chic outerwear and white accessories, there are endless ways to incorporate this classic hue into your look, no matter the season. So go ahead—break the rules, wear white after Labor Day, and redefine your fall fashion.

By Julia Belian