Definitely wear white after Labour Day
If Coco Chanel wore white year-round, so can you.
Old fashion rules die hard, especially when it comes to wearing white after Labour Day. It's an oft tossed around maxim at this time of year, but with the rise of seasonless dressing and summer weather that stretches deep into October, there's no reason to ditch your creamy dresses and ivory jeans.
Theories as to the origin of the now dated rule are a dime a dozen. Some speculate it came from pre-air conditioning times when lighter colours were a necessity for keeping cool. Others blame it on the society ladies who used the no-no as a weapon for sussing out the nouveau riche. Regardless, these days it's perfectly okay to wear white (or any colour for that matter) year-round.
You needn't look any further than the runways for proof. Jil Sander showed snowy sleeveless vests, Chloe cut chalky lace-trimmed dresses and Victoria Beckham made a case for minimal dressing with milky maxi looks accented with pretty pleating. Even the show-goers caught by street style cameras have caught on. The main takeaway? Go head-to-toe monochromatic for the most modern look.
Consider this the denim jacket 2.0. Subtle details like softly sloped shoulders and a tone-on-tone belt make it miles better than a boxy basic. An easy transition piece for unpredictable weather, you can wear it with a tee now or layer it with a turtleneck once the crisp air sets in.
Proenza Schouler Belted White Denim Jacket, $779.69, intermixonline.com
White leather boots are statement-making, especially when they're decked out in tough girl touches like silver studs, zippers and spindly stiletto heels (there's a kitten heel version too). Arm yourself with a Magic Eraser, and hurry to break them out before the slush settles.
Alexander Wang Eri Boot, $850, alexanderwang.com
All things down-home-on-the-ranch are having a revival, including sweet, doily-like blouses. Think eyelet, ruffles and lots of ruching - the more grandma's tablecloth vibes, the better.
J.Crew Ruffle-Neck Eyelet Top, $118.50, jcrew.com
Sometimes all it takes to make a statement is a bold earring. The addition of the gold sphere here instantly adds an element of luxe. Plus, they're as easy to wear as a stud, yet give just the right amount of dangle.
Zara Contrasting Bead Earrings, $19.90, zara.com
There's nothing simpler than slipping on a dress; it's sophisticated dressing in a snap. Massimo Dutti's take on the shirt dress, complete with exaggerated collar and tortoiseshell belt is a minimalist's dream. Pull on a pair of creamy boots and you're out the door.
Massimo Dutti Dress With Side Pleats, $245, massimodutti.com
As the brand behind one of summer's most Instagrammed bags (that clear plastic tote was everywhere!), Staud cemented their status among the must-have bag brands. I'm betting that their optic white patent pouch will be the next winner.
Staud Grace Patent-Leather Tote, $275, net-a-porter.com
After years of skinnies, it's time to give your legs some breathing room – the wide leg jean is back. Play with proportions when picking coordinating pieces. A cropped faux fur coat or tucked in sweater will offset the volume and show off the exposed button detail.
Gap Wearlight High Rise Wide-Leg Jeans with Button Fly, $89.95 (on sale for $44.99), gapcanada.ca
Still a little wary of wearing white in September? Go for a small accessory like a pale pair of sunglasses. The exaggerated cat eye is still going strong as the most stylish shape.
Illesteva Marianne White Sunglasses, $190, themodist.com
I have a feeling the wear-sneakers-with-everything craze won't be fading any time fast (it's hard to argue with a trend that's this comfortable). Treat yourself to a slick all-white pair that will make picking up the dry-cleaning feel like a fashion moment.
Nike Air VaporMax Flyknit 2, $255, nike.com
Caitlan Moneta (@caitlanmoneta) is a Toronto-based fashion editor, writer and stylist. She's a firm believer that there's nothing a little retail therapy can't fix.