Wednesday, December 4, 2013

White After Labor Day: Yes or No?

   




      Growing up, I was strictly taught that after the Labor Day holiday we were not to wear predominately white clothing. This rule was universal, at least so I thought. Women across the South follow the rule strictly, some even to extremes.

     The rule began in the 1800s to show wealth and status. Once everyone began wearing white clothing, the upper class began imposing fashion rules; no white after labor day being one of them. Also, once the temperatures dropped chimneys began being used. White clothing would have been ruined by ashes and soot had they been worn during the winter months.

      In 1894, Labor Day became a federal holiday and was adopted as the official end of summer. It was decided that white was color of summer, not fall. http://mentalfloss.com/article/12424/why-can’t-you-wear-white-after-labor-day

     A place hesitant of change, the South has strongly adhered to this rule. The South is modest, especially in the area of fashion. This rule is one of many that our graceful Southern Belles have deeply implemented into our roots. Studies even show that southern women follow this rule more than anyone else in the world. http://socialprimer.com/2011/08/28/no-white-after-labor-day/

     Articles have often been written thanking celebrities for wearing white after Labor Day, proving to the world that this fashion faux pas is of the past. If Kim Kardashian can do it, so can you.

     Today's fashion experts say that white is acceptable after Labor Day as long as it is coordinated with the season and temperature. For example, a white sweater in December or a white scarf is perfectly fine for cool temperatures. However, white linen pants would not be proper attire during the winter months unless you are vacationing in Jamaica.

     Consider fabric, temperature, season and location. After all, winter white is a phrase for some reason.




High Dollar Fashion on a Loose Change Budget






     It seems fitting and appropriate that I write about saving money on clothes. After all, I am in college and live on a tight budget. A really tight budget. However, I still manage to buy clothes and will do so before I choose to eat anything besides Ramen Noodles.

     In the judgmental world we live in, we put a price tag on everything. We are willing to pay more money for a shirt at Macy's that you could find at Target. A name brand means more than anything. We pay for status and that satisfies us.

     Thankfully for all of the penny pinching college students, it has became an acceptable trend to shop at thrift stores. Vintage clothes are in and wanted.  It is cooler to wear someone's grandmother's coat from the 1920's than a brand new one from  Chanel.

     At one point in time, people found shame in shopping in thrift stores. Now, we are boastful about the amount of money we can save. http://www.cnn.com/2013/06/11/living/thrift-store-style/

     Lucky for everyone in Hattiesburg, there are some great thrift stores in our area.

     First off, get it out of your head that thrift shops are only the Salvation Army type full of unwanted clothes that are torn, stained and basically ruined. While you can find great finds there, Hattiesburg has shops with awesome vintage and unique items.

     Another great penny pinching idea is shopping in consignment stores. The quality of clothing is high and the shopping experience usually is too.

http://www.jsonline.com/business/thrift-shops-booming-as-recession-changes-shopper-attitudes-b9966684z1-218305051.html

     So, stop thinking that you have to pay an arm and a leg to be fashionable. Go find great items and save money while you are at it!