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Is It Really Time To Put the White Pants Away?

August 29th, 2016
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On the origins of the no white after Labor Day myth

Summer isn’t quite over yet, but we’re going to be transitioning towards fall this week on HSS as we bring back our monthly editorial theme this Thursday.

However, there’s one timely topic we’d like to address prior to this weekend and that is the no white pants after Labor Day myth.

white after labor day myth

Do just a little reading on the topic and you’ll find a wide (and wild) number of theories on why this is even a thing. Among our favorites – and what I personally find to be the most plausible – is that the no white after Labor Day “rule” was, more than anything, symbolic.

white after labor day myth

| WEARING | Suitsupply blazer, Brooks Brothers Black Fleece shirt, J.Crew jeans, Oliver Peoples sunglasses, IWC watch, Tateossian and Cantini MC Firenze bracelets, To Boot New York loafers | PHOTOGRAPHY | by Rob McIver Photo

In the early part of the last century, white was what was worn by Americans who were wealthy enough to spend their summers outside of the sweltering city heat.

And while they were escaping the city where they lived and worked, they were also symbolically escaping the fashion (or uniform) that went along with that work. A uniform of white linen was a stark and refreshing contrast to a suit and tie.

Labor Day, the traditional end of summer, marked their re-entry into the city, work life and reality. So the white clothing went away and the darker work clothing returned.

white after labor day myth

There was an element of class involved as well. Originally, this was something done by the wealthy. But with the rise of the middle class in the mid part of the century, more and more people started to adopt the “rule” as a way to appear more upwardly mobile.

Interesting theory, but as with anything fashion related, there’s usually little rhyme or reason as to why something trends or gets institutionalized in such a way.

Here at HSS, you know how we feel about the rules and this is one that should be thrown out. Though it is interesting to debate.

white after labor day myth

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Brian Sacawa
He Spoke Style

Brian Sacawa

Brian Sacawa is the Founder of He Spoke Style and one of the original men’s style influencers. Since 2013, his goal has remained the same: to provide men the advice and inspiration they need to dress well, develop their personal style, and gain more confidence. Brian’s interest and passion for men’s style and luxury watches has led to his writing for The Robb Report, The Rake, and Sotheby’s and he has been quoted on menswear in publications such as The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Today.com, Brides Magazine, and the Huffington Post. He lives in the woods north of Baltimore with his wife, Robin, kitties Nick and Nora, and German Shepherd/Collie mix Charlie.

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