How To Master White After Labor Day
Most of you trendsetters have probably heard the age-old fashion rule that bans the wearing of any white apparel after Labor Day.
Well I’m here to tell you not to believe everything you hear, especially in the case of this archaic fashion faux-pas. I find style rules such as this one act more like subjective guidelines that are most often meant to be broken.
With the temperatures cooling, I advocate a seasonal take on the lightest part of the color spectrum, encouraging you to lean towards accents of rich ivories and sharp whites and step into the season with a clean sartorial slate and fresh fashion perspective.
When electing creamy duds, opt for heavier textured fabrics like cashmere, denim, and wool to maintain a seasonally appropriate look. Stash away your white lightweight cottons and linens for the summer and spring months. However, don’t be fearful of mixing and matching items from the warmer seasons with fall friendly staples.
Before leaving home in your immaculate attire, don’t forget to pick up a steamer or iron; those pesky wrinkles are most noticeable on white fabrics (and keep a few clean up wipes in your purse in case of any accidental spills).
All White, Everything
There’s something so incredibly sleek about an all white ensemble during any time of the year. More eye-catching than their all black counterparts, head-to-toe snowy clothes look crisp and clean, and exude an air of stylish confidence.
For a pristine white on white fall look, try layering on different textures, like a chunky knit sweater over a sleek pencil skirt or torn up white denim pants with a structured cream blazer.
If you’re looking to really stand out, play up your makeup or make your ivories pop by adding bold accents of bright colors or sparkly statement jewels.
Color Block
The best part about wearing white has to be the infinite number of opportunities that you are allowed in terms of combining colors. From neons to earth tones, you virtually cannot go wrong when pairing with creamy shades.
For the fall season, I recommend sticking to monochromatic hues such as caramel browns, grays, and deep purples or burgundies. Pastel peaches and soft blues can also look great when contrasted with pops of brown.
Blue Jeans, White Shirt
Lana Del Rey depicts the aesthetic epitome of casual cool in the lyrics to her hit song “Blue Jeans.” Although the reverse is equally as trendy, the point is that classic blue denim pairs flawlessly with some crisp white.
To achieve this get up, pair white skinnies with a dark blue chambray button-up or layer a simple white blouse over your favorite jeans for an effortlessly cool vibe. Accessorize with metallic jewelry and an oversized purse and funky hat.
B&W
There is nothing more classic than a minimalistic black and white combination. From cookies to dalmatians, this color duo certainly tops the list of some of our favorite things. So it is no surprise that one of the best ways to contrast your white attire is with a hue on the other end of the spectrum.
The possibilities are endless with black and white fall fashion color combos. From leggings to sweaters to shirtdresses and tights, feel free to experiment with your range of B&W options.
My favorite way to style this twosome is by starting with a black foundation and accenting it with a sharply contrasting white item. Try a white blazer layered over black leggings and a black blouse, for a look that will have you feeling refined and sexy.
The White Skirt
For a more formal and feminine approach to snowy-whites try a skirt-based ensemble, starting your outfit from the bottom up.
A high-waisted skater skirt with a fitted blouse or a sleek pencil skirt with an oversized top provides contrasting structure and definition while creating a very chic look.
Leather and Lace
If you’re craving some femininity, douse your whites with delicate lace. This sweetheart fabric softens up the heavier fall textures that you should be utilizing for your whites.
For an edgier approach to this detailed fabric, pair a leather skirt or pants with an intricate lace blouse. Also try a leather base item topped off with a cool motto jacket -you’ll more than redefine the phrase punk rock princess.
LWD
Although we usually tend to reserve the cute little white dress for warmer times, there’s no harm in transcending seasons by styling your dainty LWD weather-appropriately. Again, don’t be fearful of bending fashion rules as long as you remain consistent with your seasonal approach.
Try donning your favorite white dress over some black tights or pair your white dress with riding boots and over the knee socks. Stay warm with an oversized sweater, monochromatic cardigan, or leather jacket. Accessorize with long layered necklaces and chunky arm jewelry.