Photo: Showbit
So there’s this saying that you can’t wear white after Labour Day because it will be a fashion faux pas.
A little digging on the Internet actually revealed that the adage goes back to the late 1800s and it was used by the old monies to differentiate themselves from the nouveau riche. One posited that this was a ploy devised by the rich to distance themselves from the poor, who did menial labour and would inevitably get their starched white clothing dirtied, while another argued that America’s Labour Day, which falls in September, marked the start of autumn and the consequent lack of need for these summer fashions.
Whatever the history is, we know one thing for sure: The ‘no white after Labor Day’ rule? Not for us.
According to colour psychology, one of the positive meanings that white conveys is freshness, as the colour revitalises and uplifts spirits and moods.
Furthermore, white garments and accessories are undeniably chic and endlessly versatile. They look clean and pristine while adding an air of elegance and ethereality. Plus, summer is year-round in Singapore so we won’t be stowing them away anytime soon. Remember: white reflects heat so it could keep you cooler (especially in Singapore’s tropical weather) for longer.
Scroll on for our favourites.
Splurge:
https://www.herworld.com/fashion/white-outfit-ideas-work-wear/
white clothes splurge
Brandon Maxwell crepe flared pants, US$911.76 (S$1,233.28) from Net-a-Porter
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Roger Vivier Belle Vivier Trompette leather pumps, US$880.01 (S$1,190.33) from Net-a-Porter
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Givenchy Antigona mini textured-leather tote, US$1,788 (S$2,418.51) from Net-a-Porter
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Cult favourite Givenchy Antigonia is given the white treatment, and this piece is so sophisticated that it makes us want to add it to cart immediately. This handbag also comes with a detachable strap to transform it into a shoulder or crossbody as well — as though its neutral palette doesn’t make it versatile enough. We ain’t complaining.
Photo: Net-a-Porter
Loewe cutout ruffled cotton and linen-blend maxi dress, US$1,636 (S$2,212.91) from Net-a-Porter
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While this Loewe maxi dress has a lot of competing details — from the asymmetric cold-shoulder detail and the gathered and ruched details to the ruffled hemlines and sleeve — it actually shows off designer Jonathan Anderson’s masterful editing as it still looks cohesive and stunning due to its all white colour. Pair this with chunky leather bracelets and gladiator sandals for a tough, warrior-like look.
Photo: Net-a-Porter
Arkis pleated crepe de chine top, US$807.60 (S$1,092.39) from Net-a-Porter
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Eres Les Essentiels Bonnie and Profit bikini, US$227 (S$307.05) from Net-a-Porter
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Colourful patterns and bright colours aren’t the only way to garner attention at the beach — a simple yet stylish white bikini from Eres would do the trick too. Tie an orange scarf around your waist and enjoy the sun in style.
Photo: Net-a-Porter
Off-White belted broderie anglaise cotton-blend mini dress, US$858.08 (S$1,160.67) from Net-a-Porter
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The beloved lace dress is brought several notches up the style rung by Virgil Abloh’s Off-White with the use of a scalloped hem and blouson sleeves. The belt also helps to cinch the waist for a slimmer silhouette. Finish this with ankle boots and drop earrings to amp it up.
Photo: Net-a-Porter
Steal:
https://www.herworld.com/fashion/white-outfit-ideas-work-wear/
white clothes steal gallery
Charles & Keith white sneakers, S$56.90
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Klarra v-neck lace jumpsuit in white, S$79
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Zara side vent trousers, S$99.90
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Sharp and sleek, this pair of tailored straight-cut trousers will quickly make your work outfit look even more professional and polished. Throw on a blazer and get ready to command the boardroom.
Photo: Zara
H&M silk top, S$109
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Ditch the regular cotton t-shirt that can look too casual and slouchy, and opt for this chic silk number from H&M. You can pair it with any bottoms of your choice because that’s how versatile it is.
Photo: H&M
Bershka off-the-shoulder top, S$39.90
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Show off your sexy collarbone with this off-shoulder Bershka top and wear this on a romantic night out with your partner by dressing it with a flowy skirt and heels. We love the blouson sleeve details too.
Photo: Bershka
Love, Bonito Majida flounce collar top, S$36.90
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This Love, Bonito piece is made for those looking to add width to their shoulders, and it can balance out a heavier-looking lower body. It’s flounce collar gives it a strong woman warrior vibe, which you can contrast with a feminine pencil skirt and kitten heels.
Photo: Love, Bonito
Pomelo Fashion Purpose ruched waist dress – white, S$64
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This versatile midi dress from Pomelo Fashion features a gathered waist detail that pulls in your waist while the slightly puffed shoulders gives the illusion of a shapely figure. Pair this with orange sandals and find a garden party to go to.
Photo: Pomelo Fashion
READ ALSO: 8 EASY WAYS TO WEAR WHITE ON HOT DAYS and 9 WHITE WATCHES THAT LOOK GREAT AND WON’T BREAK THE BANK.
