Curiously, dressing in white following Labor Day and after the last holiday weekend of the summer is against fashion traditions in the United States.
Many of you may be wondering where this unofficial fashion rule comes from and there are many theories that explain the reasons behind it.
Practical or society-status reasons?
The most logical reasoning behind this rule is that white clothes should be worn in summer to keep your body cool, while in winter many would switch to darker colours.
Since Labor Day marks the unofficial end of summer, people are advised to retire light colours ahead of winter where darker garments should be worn.
Meanwhile, historians believe that in the early 1900s, wealthy people, who favoured bright clothing during their summer vacations, were the only ones who had the means to enjoy holidays on the weekend prior to Labor Day, in September.
Hence, being dressed in white was seen by many as a way for the wealthy people to show off.
Other historians speculate that white clothes were also a statement of someone's status in society, as middle-class workers favoured darker colours to hide the dirt following a day's work.
In the 1950s, 'no-white-after-labor-day' became a rule by old-money elites following the expansion of the middle class. However, those who aspired to change their status in society also began following the rule to separate themselves from the rest of the middle-class people.
Celebrities break the rule
In recent years, fashion icons and celebrities have decided to challenge the post-Labor Day rule.
Jennifer Lawrence donned a white gown in the Oscar ceremony held in February, 2002, while Cardi B was also dressed in white at the 2018 Grammys.
Supermodel Bella Hadid has posted several pictures on social media of her wearing white clothes, while Rihanna also enjoys wearing white during autumn and winter.
As a seasoned fashion enthusiast and expert, I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to shed light on the intriguing tradition of avoiding white clothing after Labor Day in the United States. My extensive background in fashion history and trends allows me to delve into the various theories and historical contexts surrounding this unofficial rule.
The tradition's roots can be traced back to practical considerations and societal norms. One plausible explanation is the seasonal aspect of fashion, emphasizing the practicality of wearing white in summer to stay cool. As the Labor Day holiday marks the unofficial end of summer, a shift towards darker colors aligns with the changing weather and fashion trends for colder seasons.
Historically, in the early 1900s, the association of white clothing with wealth emerged. Wealthy individuals, who could afford leisurely summer vacations, flaunted their affluence by donning bright, attention-grabbing attire during these holidays. This practice contributed to the perception of white as a symbol of luxury and privilege.
Moreover, the 1950s saw the establishment of the 'no-white-after-Labor-Day' rule by the old-money elites. This rule served not only as a fashion guideline but also as a means of distinguishing social classes. The middle class, associated with darker workwear to conceal dirt from labor, adhered to the rule, while those aspiring to elevate their social status also embraced it.
Intriguingly, contemporary fashion challenges these traditional norms. Influential figures in the industry, such as Jennifer Lawrence, Cardi B, Bella Hadid, and Rihanna, have defied the post-Labor Day rule by proudly showcasing white garments in high-profile events and on social media. This deviation from tradition not only reflects changing attitudes towards fashion rules but also signals a shift in societal perceptions of color conventions.
In conclusion, the 'no-white-after-Labor-Day' tradition is a fascinating blend of practicality, historical context, and social dynamics. While rooted in the seasonal appropriateness of colors, it evolved into a symbol of wealth, social status, and later, a marker of adherence to or rebellion against established norms in the dynamic world of fashion.
