Girmai: White is still in fashion after Labor Day

The start of college is already a daunting prospect, but for fashionistas, there’s a bigger… The start of college is already a daunting prospect, but for fashionistas, there’s a bigger stressor than schoolwork.

Despite the chaos of students moving back, I’m not worried about the textbooks I have yet to buy or the newest crop of college boys. Rather, as the seasons shift, my mind is consumed by a much more serious concern: how my wardrobe will cope with fickle Pittsburgh weather.

More specifically, there’s that age-old question that haunts the start of September: Can we wear white after Labor Day?

For years, maybe even centuries, conforming to the Labor Day rule has stifled the spirit of countless fashionistas suffering the post-summer blues. But don’t fear. I’m here to assure you that wearing white is kosher, no matter what the season.

My favorite aspects of the holidays have never been the gluttonous meals or the incessant broadcasts of “It’s a Wonderful Life.” Rather, I’ve always delighted in navigating the extravagantly decorated aisles of Neiman Marcus for that Missoni sweater that eluded me the previous year.

For some, however, this presents a problem. An abundance of what’s on sale during the holiday months are items from spring and summer, many of which are white. Don’t fret! There’s no need to neglect that little white cardigan that’s been marked down to within an inch of its life! If you follow a few simple guidelines, you’ll be able to wear white throughout the winter months without being labeled a walking fashion faux pas.

One of the most important things to remember is that wearing white in fall and winter is nothing like wearing white during spring and summer. During the warm weather months, you can play around with different fabrics and materials, whether they are chiffon, cotton or denim. During the winter, however, you have to be careful with your choices. Make sure the fabrics are of the thicker variety — you can’t go wrong with fabrics like cashmere, wool and tweed.

Another post-Labor Day word to the wise is to pair your whites with layers. Since the weather in Pittsburgh is plagued by multiple personality disorder, it’s necessary for us locals to learn how to bundle up. For example, instead of a heavy sweater, opt for a long-sleeved white tee, dressed up with a scarf, oversized cardigan, dark jeans and riding boots.

An equally pressing concern on fashionistas’ minds is the cost of updating their wardrobes. What most people don’t realize, however, is that they can utilize several pieces from their summer wardrobes for their fall outfits. Even the long-sleeved chiffon shirt that was a staple on chilly summer nights can translate to fall weather when paired with long leggings and chunky heels.

Some of your summer shorts, as well, can be reused after Labor Day. The trick is, again, to be wary of their fabrics and what you wear them with. For example, trouser, wool and even denim shorts can be rocked in the fall if worn with a pair of tights. You can go even further by playing with different textures of tights. A lace pair would look great with black wool shorts, an off-the-shoulder sweater and black boots.

Tanks and sleeveless tops are also acceptable as long as they don’t expose too much skin. They’re even more appropriate with boyfriend jeans and a fitted sweater. As for all your strapless tops, however, bid them farewell until the next summer solstice.

Remember, just because the leaves are starting to change doesn’t mean you have to hide in fear of your closet. Work with what you already have, play around with your wardrobe and invest in classic pieces that wear well year-round.