The first Monday of September is celebrated across the US as Labor Day. The symbolic end of summer typically is marked with Labor Day parades, back yard barbeques and family gatherings. The first Labor Day was celebrated in New York City in 1882 and by the end of the century President Grover Cleveland had declared it a federal holiday.
Meant to celebrate America’s workforce, Labor Day has long been associated with fashion. Though its origins are unclear, it’s a general rule of thumb that you’re not suppose to wear white after Labor Day.
Knot Standard, however, disagrees with this rule. Weather should be a key determinant of your wardrobe, not a date on the calendar. While we respect and support the idea of Labor Day and marking worker’s rights, we don’t think it should necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice your summer wardrobe. This is especially true if you live in a warmer climate and linen, seersucker and madras cotton make up a comfortable segment of your daily wear.
Indeed, we suggest that you get the most out of late summer sales and continue wearing summer suits like our classic baby blue pinstripe right up until the weather turns.
Once the cold sets in, it makes sense to switch to heavier woolens, flannels and tweeds but until then, do wear white – and cotton and linen and chinos – after Labor Day. Just be sure that you look impeccable with the correct fit, elegant essentials and complimentary accessories.