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Can you Wear White after Labor Day….       

 From Kelly Machbitz – www.totalfashionmakeover.com

It was once thought taboo to wear white after Labor Day. With shorter days and cooler weather on the way, the traditional rules of fashion state you should opt for darker colors and hang up the whites for next year.

That may be true for part of the world, but in Florida’s sub-tropical climate, white can be worn year round. I do, however, find myself putting away the white sandals, handbags and other accessories and opting for slightly darker, neutral colors. 

Although white and black are defined as “neutral”, what I am referring to here are shades of browns, tans and creams–more like skin tones.

By selecting accessories in a color close to your own natural coloring you can wear these items with just about anything in your wardrobe, from pastels to bright reds and deeper colors, all year round. As a matter of fact, when I am consulting with a client on her wardrobe needs, my first suggestion for footwear is a pair of black pumps.

Second on my list is a pair of pumps in a neutral tan or beige color. These two shades work with nearly anything in your closet, and of course, basic pumps are classics that can be worn with everything from jeans to suits.

As an added bonus, a skin tone colored shoe can actually make your legs look longer. When purchasing a neutral colored shoe, look for classic styles that can take you from summer, to fall, and back to summer again. A medium-height stacked heel is feminine enough for your delicate summer suits and dresses and weighty enough to balance heavier garments like sweaters and jackets.

Try to purchase coordinating accessories at the same time. Since dye lots can vary greatly from year to year and season to season, try to pick up a matching handbag or belt during the same shopping trip.. In most cases, designers will offer several pieces helping to create a pulled-together ensemble.

If you don’t find a coordinating piece during the same shopping trip, be sure to bring the shoes along next time to ensure you get a good match.

Keep in mind the key is balance. You want to wear a shoe color that adds balance to the rest of your outfit.

For example: Tan shoes work well with a white or cream colored suit as they are slightly darker but do not overpower the rest of the outfit. However, white shoes with a tan suit do not work as well as the shoes are lighter than the rest of the outfit, call attention to the feet, and look out of place.

So when the weather starts to turn and you are not sure what to wear, reach for your neutrals and you will always be appropriately attired.