Throughout spring and summer we adopt white as a neutral outfit foundation without hesitation. Cool and clean, it is an essential palette builder for brightening any look and has a unique way of breathing new life into even the stalest of wardrobe — so why must we recklessly abandon it after Labor Day?
5 Reasons to Reconsider White This Autumn:
1. It’s a neutral. White pairs with practically everything. You can layer it, remix it, and use it in almost any palette for a clean, sophisticated foundation. Would you ever banish black from your wardrobe?
2. This isn’t 1950. The old-school rules of fashion no longer apply! Not wearing white after Labor Day, simply because of a calendar happenstance, seems like a poor rationalization for restricting your wardrobe options.
3. Automatic individuality. Here in Chicago cold-weather wardrobes, especially at the office, are comprised primarily of dark shades. Walking around the financial district feels like swimming in a sea of one boring black wardrobe after another. White can diversify your fall wardrobe while allowing you to LITERALLY stand out in a crowd.
4. It’s clean. White brings a bright cleanliness to any ensemble. It provides a minimalistic foundation for fall’s rich fabrics, such as brocades and tweeds or even this season’s popular chunky knits. Freshening your fall wardrobe with white pieces can truly feel liberating!
5. Has high-impact, even in the smallest quantities. Many of you may be intimidated by the thought of wearing white during the autumn months but even the smallest punch of it can have SERIOUS impact. Try out some fabulous white nail polish (here) or a clean white scarf (here) to recharge your wardrobe inexpensively. [Insert product pictures, links below]
Some of my favorite white pieces for fall are:
General Tips When Wearing White:
- Always carry a Tide To-Go pen (here) for unexpected spills and smudges.
- Only wash white clothing and accessories with other whites. If you live alone, it can take time to build a full load of laundry but the wait will save your clothing! No one wants to open their washer to find their whites have been tinted blue (or red, or green, or…).
- DO NOT put your stained whites in the dryer! If you are trying to remove a stain from your white clothing, check to make sure the stain is completely removed after washing before putting it in the dryer. Once you put it in the dryer, the stain will set and be nearly IMPOSSIBLE to remove.
- BUT don’t be afraid to actually wear your whites! White can be a little intimidating if you aren’t used to wearing it but don’t let your clothing languish in your closet out of fear. Wearing white takes a little practice (and alertness) so don’t be afraid to “pay your dues” and make some mistakes (i.e. spills) as you learn.
HAPPY SHOPPING!