White reimagined
Break the rules and wear the fresh look year-round
Memorial Day signifies the official start of summer. For fashion traditionalists, that means you can now wear white. But is that rule still a thing? You know the one that says you can only wear white between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Ask any Houstonian about wearing the color and they’ll promptly tell you the warm year-round temperatures alone gives us a pass. Also, wearing white when it’s hot is simply a way to stay cool.
“I always thought that rule was silly and super dated,” said Houston designer and “Project Runway” Season 2 winner Chloe Dao. “I think you should wear white year-round. I think white is the best color on everyone. It’s the best fabric filter. It brightens your face and looks amazing on people of color.”
Still, the relevancy of the staid fashion rule continues to be discussed on fashion sites and among academics.
The “you can’t wear white after Labor Day,” rule
was created to separate the old money elitists from the new money group. “It (was) insiders trying to keep other people out,” said Valerie Steele, fashion historian and director of the Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology, in an interview with Time, “and outsiders trying to climb in by proving they know the rules.”
Designers also continue to find ways to reimagine white in their collections. Rebecca Taylor has introduced a “White Capsule” collection inspired by the many spring events, such as bridal showers, graduations and even outdoor festivals. Prices range from $395 to $595.
“I think people like to have rules, and the white rule is generally a good one to have,” Taylor said. “I love wearing a white crisp cotton or linen dress in the summer with a bright colored sandal, as it feels really fresh after coming off a long winter.”
“I have always had a love of beautifully crafted Victorian pieces. These pieces I’ve collected through the years have inspired the white capsule collection, which encapsulates delicate embroidered lawn dresses, cotton linen wrap dress, silk chiffon ruffled dresses and scalloped trimmed jumpsuits.”
Dao takes a more practical approach to why she shies away from white.
“I personally don’t wear white because I’m a messy person,” she said. “I’ll get stains on it, but I want to wear white because it’s super classic. I style a lot of outfits for clients, and I always suggest a white top because it signifies class and chicness and is an instant brightener.”
One of the easiest ways to bring white into your wardrobe for summer is with denim. White denim is a great companion for a colorful printed top or bold solid jacket. A white, lace sundress is also a must.
When it comes to men’s fashion, Esquire.com suggests guys embrace shades of white, from eggshell to ecru. A white T-shirt, button-down or even a slip-on loafer can add a freshness to a summer wardrobe. Don’t forget the white linen suit for those summer white parties. Try Suitsupply’s Havana off-white striped linen suit, $639, at suitsupply.com.