The Outdated Fashion Rule We Aren't Following Anymore

Wearing white after Labor Day was once considered a big fashion faux pas, but we're tossing this outdated belief out of our minds — and closets. Exactly when and why folks started this trend is unclear, but style expert and Velvet Image Lab founder Elena Mensch exclusively tells Glam that the rule was likely created centuries ago when clothing was soiled more easily in cold weather due to rain and snow, which made hand-washing more difficult. She also shared an interesting truth about the "no white after Labor Day" rule. "Old-money families created many rules, including this one, to separate themselves from 'new money.' The established elite usually spent their summers somewhere on the coast, and around Labor Day, they were coming back to the city and to work," she explains, adding, "If they spotted someone wearing white after that date, it signaled first-generation wealth."

These days, just like banning white after Labor Day, caring about social status is considered "passé," according to stylist and VStyle owner Vanessa Valiente. "The rule of not wearing white in winter and spring is becoming outdated because designers, personal style, and our culture are evolving," Valiente exclusively tells Glam. "But most importantly, the designers and brands are leading the charge by producing fresh white garments year round, giving consumers access, therefore permission, to wear white year round." Some celebrities are even ditching the rule. For instance, both Princess Eugenie and Meghan markle, Duchess of Sussex, wore white ensembles for Easter 2025, showing that it's not only possible but also beautiful. So, while you might not be donning your white linens and sundresses during the cooler months, be on the lookout for cozy winter and spring whites that will have you looking your best against even the snowiest backdrop.

Incorporating white into your cold-weather wardrobe may seem tricky, but according to Elena Mensch, it's all about the fabric. "During the wintertime, white looks the most amazing in soft, fluffy, touchable materials. Think of cashmere or mohair sweaters, fur coats, and plush knitted beanies and mittens," she exclusively shares with Glam. And you may not have realized that white comes in various shades or that your skin undertone matters while choosing your winter items, but these are both critical aspects to consider. "Find the shade of white that flatters your skin tone best," Mensch adds. Undertones are important, too. Cool undertones look best in classic white, while warm undertones typically do better with creams and off-whites. On that note, Vanessa Valiente exclusively tells Glam that "an off-white garment pairs BEAUTIFULLY with earth tones," so don't hesitate to mix these palettes, especially during winter.

Don't be afraid to mix and match your whites, either. There's nothing as glamorous as a head-to-toe outfit in crisp white with touches of faux fur throughout. However, if you want to just add one item to your look, consider an accessory. "A white coat might not work for everyone's lifestyle, but a cream beanie or a scarf will do the trick," Mensch tells us. While white pants aren't the most practical, Mensch says, "Think of bottoms in substantial materials like wool, denim, or heavy cotton." Ultimately, with so much fun fashion out there, excluding a color because of an outdated rule only limits our sartorial creativity, and with these tips, you'll be sure to nail your classic winter white outfits.