Growing up in the South in the land of debutantes and cotillions, I often heard the fashion rule of "No white after Labor Day." Another influencing factor comes from growing up in the nineties and watching "Serial Mom," the scene where Kathleen Turner beats a lady to death for wearing white shoes after Labor Day during her murder trial, literally put the fear of God in me to never wear white. But where did this crazy rule originate?
A few theories have been developed over time, but they pretty much boil down to two distinct points: "it's kinda rich people's fault" to "it's ALL rich people's fault." And let's be honest here... like most things are in life. 😝 There are a couple schools of thought circulating over the decades: Some deduce that the white clothing was worn due to the lack of air conditioning in the summer months (logical); others blame the rise the Gilded Age and summers in the Hamptons (think The Great Gatsby); while a few posit that it was an earlier segregation in New York's high society (old money from the nouveau riche- Think Titanic's Molly Brown). Either way, the rule came from New York and the fashion editors that lived there and dictated fashion to rest of the country....so imagine my surprise when I learned that this came from New York and not handed down from Scarlet O'Hara.
Luckily, Fashion has changed, Kathleen Turner!! You can wear white all year around- thanks to Coco Chanel, who broke this rule by instituting a year-round white ensembles circa 1920! Over the past couple decades, this rule has went out the window. Even Emily Post’s Etiquette, 17th Edition, gives approval for wearing white after Labor Day. Just one minor guideline when wearing white during the winter months- it's all about the fabric! When wearing white, steer toward more luxurious fabrics such as a thick cotton, wool, or cashmere which will add a streamlined element to your all-white outfit or create a stunning contrast when paired with other colors. But when in doubt, you can always rely on a cream color, which be worn all seasons and go with most skin tones.
Here are a few of our favorite white or cream pieces....
While we all gravitate toward different genres of books and stories; some of us listen while others hold the book in our hands, the goal is the same... "We read to know we're not alone" - C.S Lewis
Truth be told, while murder mysteries have my heart, I'm a sucker for a good romance, and there's nothing like a daily devotion to raise our spirits, help us stay focused, and remind us to keep moving forward. So, while my reading wishlist is a mile long, but I never miss a chance to add another...Tell us, what are you reading? And what is that one book, that you read that one time and you still think about it, and you could read it again and agin and it would never get old?
Please do tell!
Check back soon for new recommendations!
Happy Reading 📖 ❤️
Embrace Winter Comfort:
5 Must-Have Sweaters for Your Wardrobe
As winter wraps its chilly arms around us, it's time to update our wardrobes with cozy essentials. Sweaters, the epitome of winter fashion, come in various styles to suit every taste and occasion. In this blog post, we'll explore five essential sweater styles you need this winter: chunky, cropped, loungy, striped, and the classic sweatshirt. Let's delve into the uniqueness of each style and discover one stylish way to incorporate them into your winter looks. 1. Chunky Sweater: The chunky sweater is a winter wardrobe staple, offering both warmth and style. Its oversized, textured knit adds a touch of coziness to any outfit. Whether you're heading to the office or spending a casual day out, a chunky sweater effortlessly elevates your winter fashion game.
The Versatile Vibe Sweater
Styling Tip: Pair your chunky sweater with slim-fit jeans and ankle boots for a balanced silhouette. Add a statement belt to define your waist and complete the look with a wide-brimmed hat for a touch of chic flair. 2. Cropped Sweater: Showcasing a hint of midriff, the cropped sweater is perfect for those who want to stay warm while maintaining a trendy edge. This style is versatile, allowing you to create casual or dressed-up looks effortlessly.
Toasted Taupe Sweater
Styling Tip: Combine a cropped sweater with high-waisted trousers or a midi skirt for a fashion-forward ensemble. Layer a long coat over your outfit for added warmth and sophistication. Finish the look with ankle boots or stylish sneakers for a modern twist. 3. Loungy Sweater: Winter is synonymous with relaxation, and the loungy sweater embodies comfort without compromising on style. Whether you're staying in or heading out for a laid-back day, this sweater style exudes effortless cool. Mocha Muse Top Styling Tip: Opt for a loungy sweater in a neutral tone and pair it with your favorite leggings or joggers for the ultimate comfort-chic ensemble. Complete the look with cozy slip-on sneakers or fuzzy slippers for an extra touch of relaxation. 4. Striped Sweater: Inject a dose of playfulness into your winter wardrobe with a striped sweater. The timeless pattern adds a touch of whimsy to your outfit, making it a versatile choice for various occasions. Pocketed Perfection Sweater
Styling Tip: Striped sweaters pair well with solid-colored bottoms. Opt for classic blue jeans or a sleek pencil skirt to balance the bold pattern. Throw on a tailored blazer for a polished finish and complete the look with ankle boots or loafers for a sophisticated touch. 5. Classic Sweatshirt: No winter wardrobe is complete without the classic sweatshirt. Versatile and comfortable, it's a go-to piece for casual outings and cozy nights in.
Local Sweatshirt Styling Tip: Elevate your classic sweatshirt by layering it over a collared shirt or turtleneck. Combine it with tailored trousers or a pleated skirt for a smart-casual look. Finish off with sneakers or ankle boots to strike the perfect balance between comfort and style. This winter, embrace the chilly weather in style by incorporating these five essential sweater styles into your wardrobe. From the chunky warmth of oversized knits to the playful charm of striped patterns, each sweater brings its unique flair to your winter fashion repertoire. Experiment with different styling options to make these cozy pieces an integral part of your winter style journey. Stay warm and stylish all season long!
