LAS VEGAS (FOX5) -
Not wearing white after Labor Day is a long-standing fashion tradition, but is it outdated? Founder and owner of Patty's Closet, Patty Barba, says it is OK to wear white after the end of summer holiday.
That may be offensive to some, but fashion insiders say it's just an outdated fashion myth, especially here in the Desert Southwest.
"Here it's so hot! It doesn't even get cold until November," Barba said.
Some historians say the rule likely started in the early 1900s when people dressed more formal. They would wear light clothes for summer vacations - think the Hamptons, a popular vacation spot for New Yorkers. In the fall and winter they would wear more drab, dark, heavier clothes because it was so cold.
Barba suggests making simple wardrobe adjustments if you want to wear white through fall and winter. "Use the monotones. Go down to a cream or a pearl color. Obviously layering helps you too."
Since white is a neutral, it goes with everything.
Las Vegas stylist Jenna Doughton says there is nothing more chic in the fall than a crisp white suit with a black turtleneck and black boots. She also suggests wearing patent white shoes with black tights. White nails are also going to look good this year. Doughton says heavier materials as opposed to thin cotton make the difference.
There is a slight twist to the "no white after Labor Day" rule. "You don't want to see a guy with a white linen pant in the fall. You know what I mean?" Barba said. Since linen is typically a summer beach fashion statement (again, think the Hamptons) that needs to be retired until Memorial Day.
Barba gave us some extra fall fashion tips. This year pleather is going to be huge, but Las Vegans will have to wait awhile to go all out since it's still very hot.
Look for shimmery tops in silver and gold, animal graphic prints on tees and statement necklaces.
The neon trend that was huge over the summer will be more muted - think tanks under a mocha colored jacket.
As far back as 1920, this Labor Day "rule" was broken. Fashion icon Coco Chanel made white a year-round staple and permanent part of her wardrobe.
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