Who said you can't wear white after Labor Day?

November 25, 2024

We think they're wrong.  White and cream are ubiquitous this winter.  Pair soft cashmere sweaters with white denim.  Slip into smooth, cream colored, satin tops under your blazer or cardigan.  And don't forget that ultra-clean white scarf to set off the coat or jacket you live in.  Designers have moved further and further from rules about what to wear based upon season.  And we want to praise every shred of white that reflects the purity of snow and renewal of the seasons during the dormancy of winter.  Think of white fabric as a blank canvas for your resolutions or a way to set off your glowing personality.

So, where did the idea come from?

Think Great Gatsby.  The first Great War is over and the wealthy elite are spending their summers partying at their Hamptons mansion or some other beach location.  They have staff to handle all the day-to-day requirements of being alive, so they can afford to lounge around in crisp white outfits without concern for soiling them.  In essence, it distinguished the wealthy from the working class.   Truthfully, historians believe that the term originated in the late 19th century, before the war, but the idea was the same.  Even today, sports like tennis, golf, and equestrian use white clothing during competition to express respect for the judges they compete in front of.

Is that important to us now? <eye roll>

Well, if you're not sure about the answer to that question... here's your permission slip:

You, fabulous fashionista, can wear white WHENEVER THE F*CK you want.

Start with a luxe cashmere sweater by 27 Miles Malibu or a cream colored satin camisole by Ramy Brook layered under your blazer.  Pretty soon you'll be wearing those chic white trousers by Rails with your favorite leather jacket or the cream colored trench to block the cold winter wind.  There are many choices and as long as you're dressed for your life, who's to say there are any rules you must follow? 

We say, "Make your own rules."

Also in ELEVATED EDIT by The Collective