Wearing white has long been tied to summer, sunshine, and special occasions. But can you wear white before Memorial Day? In this article, we’ll break down where the no-white rule came from, practical tips for styling white pieces and discover the best white staples to wear before Memorial Day from our talented artists.
Let’s dive right into!
Why Can't You Wear White Before Memorial Day?
In fact, the “no white before Memorial Day” rule quietly held in the US in the late 19th and early 20th century as it represented class and social positioning.
White clothing was reserved for the months between Memorial Day and Labor Day for some reasons. During this time, wealthy Americans (known as “Old Money” elites) would retreat from the city heat to seaside resorts or countryside estates. Hence, wearing white became a symbol of wealth and summer leisure. It stayed cleaner in rural settings, looked crisp in the sun, and offered a cool alternative to darker, heaviest fabrics.
In addition, it was also believed that white was the color linked to mourning and weddings. So it was more prevalent in cooler weather.
Can you wear white before Memorial Day ?
Yes. It’s appropriate to wear white before Memorial Day and throughout the year. The idea that you can’t wear white before Memorial Day is largely seen as an old-fashioned fashion rule. Today, the color we wear reflects individual expression, climate-appropriate depression, and confidence. Hence, while it's fun to honor tradition, you don't need to wait for Memorial Day to break out your favorite white staples in your closet.
Hence, you don't need to stress over whether you can wear white. But should you wear every white piece in your closet before Memorial Day? Let's walk through the most common white wardrobe pieces so you can decide what to wear and how to wear it with total confidence.
White Clothes (In General): Feel free to go for your new favorite white staples to dress up before Memorial Day. The key is choosing season-appropriate fabrics. Think denim, cotton twill, ponte knit, or structured cotton blends. Skip the ultra-light linen and seersucker until the weather gets warmer.
White Dress: A white dress can be a sweet choice before Memorial if you style it appropriately. Effortlessly pair with a trench coat, leather jacket, or cardigan to keep warm and create contrast.
White Jacket: A white denim jacket, a cropped cotton blazer, or even a bouclé coat is a fantastic staple for early spring. It adds polish to floral dresses, printed skirts, or jeans. Smartest choices for breezy days.
White linen: Linen is light, breathable, and designed for high temps. Wearing white linen too early can feel off-season unless you layer smartly. Add long sleeves, a neutral sweater, or wear white linen pants with structured accessories for a seasonally balanced look. Perfect white outfit before Memorial Day.
White sandals: If you're in Florida or the South, you can probably wear white sandals before Memorial Day. However, if spring is still chilly where you live, it's better to wait or go for white espadrilles, loafers, or clog-style shoes instead.
White shorts can work before Memorial Day if it’s warm enough. Style them with a sweater, button-down shirt, or light blazer to avoid a beachy look too early in the season.
White shoes: White sneakers are a year-round fashion essential. They're clean, neutral, and go with just about everything. White flats, loafers, and even boots are also acceptable before Memorial Day.
Things to Consider Wearing White Before Memorial Day
Regional and Personal Style Nuances:
In Florida, it is warm almost every month, so wearing white is not just acceptable but practical as well. Light colors keep you cool, and breathable fabrics like cotton or linen are wardrobe staples long before Memorial Day rolls around.
In many Southern US states, white starts showing up in wardrobes right after Easter. The weather turns warm earlier, and spring events like church services and garden parties often call for lighter hues.
Meanwhile, spring arrives slowly in the Northeast and Midwest. If there's still a chill in the air, you can wear white with the right fabrics and layers. A white wool-blend coat , white denim pants , or cotton knits work great. Just save the linen for June.
Fabrics
When it comes to wearing white before Memorial Day, fabric is the key for your consideration. Ensure that you can stay comfortable and look sharp with your Memorial Day outfits. Here are go-to materials for your choices:
- Cotton for breathability and ultimate comfort in softness
- Heavier cotton for breathability to cool your skin and keep it dry
- Linen for moisture-wicking properties and feather-light feel.
- Lightweight wool for cooler temps with a clean finish
- Rayon with quick-drying and absorbent properties
- Denim for durability
Styling Tips
Layering for warmth: While wearing white tops, dresses, or shirts before Memorial Day is still chilly. Let’s add trench coat , denim jacket , or even a chunky cardigan to complete your outfit in cooler mornings and evenings
Color pairing for the season: Pairing white with navy, taupe, camel, or soft pastels to create a contrast effect and achieve a grounded and seasonal vibe.
Transitioning footwear: Swap sandals for white sneakers, loafers, or ankle boots to look fresh. However, consider going for the right footwear for your white outfit before Memorial in specific settings.
Printblur’s Picks: White Memorial Day Design Ideas from Independent Artists
Memorial Day is more than just the unofficial start of summer. It's a time to remember, reflect, and show pride. At Printblur Online, we’ve curated a fresh collection of white Memorial Day clothing items designed by independent artists, combining patriotism with personal style.
Give it a try with the timeless and meaningful color white for the occasions in our exclusive Memorial Day designs.
White Memorial Day Shirts
Memorial Day graphic tees in white are classic and versatile staples than ever. They stand out with a clean, traditional patriotic design that honors the day in a respectful, understated way.
Made from cotton or cotton-blend fabric, the shirts offer breathable comfort for spring and summer events. In addition to the white shirts, you’ll also find multiple color options for your personal styles and preferences.
Best of all, prices start at just $11.45, an easy win for your wallet and your wardrobe.
>>> Browse the extensive collection of Memorial Day shirts for endless design possibilities.
Memorial Day Hawaiian Shirts In White
Looking for something more relaxed with island vibes? White Hawaiian shirts for Memorial Day bring comfort, coolness, and patriotic energy together in one look. Vibrant all-over-print designs deliver bold colors and strong messages. White color keeps these eye-catching Hawaiian shirts clean and powerful.
Each one is crafted with 100% woven polyester, perfect for staying cool on warm days. The whitesmoke color adds a sophisticated edge, while sizes from S to 5XL mean everyone in the family can find a fit. Now available for the price of $14.95.
>>> Don’t forget to check out all Memorial Day aloha shirts!
White Disney Patriotic Memorial Day Tank Tops
These white Memorial Day tank tops are definitely the choice for Disney fans, which are inspired by favorite Disney characters with patriotic flair to celebrate Memorial Day. From funny Mickey and friends prints, Stitch USA flags to cute July 4th tanks, there’s always something for you to go for.
Made from 100% cotton or cotton-poly blends, these tanks are lightweight and breathable for any outdoor gathering. Now in sizes from XS to 2XL. Starting from $12.95!
Shop our Memorial Day tanks and grab your favorite design today.
White Matching Family Shirt Ideas For Memorial Day
For Memorial Day, matching family shirts in white are a fun and heartfelt way to celebrate the holiday while honoring those who served. These festive Memorial Day family shirts are as expressive as they are patriotic, perfect for family BBQs, parades, and photos you'll cherish forever.
White Memorial Day Baseball Tees
Want a more casual, sporty vibe? White Memorial Day baseball tees blend classic Americana style with modern comfort. They are fun, patriotic, and full of personality. These baseball tees come in classic white with black or red sleeves, made from soft cotton-polyester blends for breathable comfort. The ¾ sleeve length makes them perfect for wearing before Memorial Day, especially in cooler spring temperatures.
Grab your new favorite Memorial Day baseball tees today - patriotic, practical, and custom!
Wrapping Up
You can completely wear something white before Memorial Day without any restrictions. The outdated “no white before Memorial Day” is no longer acceptable. By choosing the right fabrics, layering smartly, and understanding your region's climate, you can easily rock white for your self-expression and confidence.
Looking to update your wardrobe with something unique and custom? Discover Printblur’s Memorial Day design ideas, created and sold by independent artists who know how to make white work any day of the year.
>>> Read More:
