Can you believe Labor Day is almost here? It feels like we were getting into summer, and suddenly we’re talking about the last long weekend before fall.
If you’ve got a backyard BBQ, picnic, or casual get-together planned, you may be wondering what to wear. It’s still summer (and usually still plenty hot!), but by Labor Day I always feel like my clothes need to look just a little less beachy and a little more pulled together.
Here are three easy Labor Day outfits that are relaxed, summery, and perfect for winding down the season in style.
1. A Bright Red Sundress
What better way to send summer out with a bang than a fabulous red sundress?
Red feels fun and festive for a long-weekend party, and I love how easy this midi shirtdress is. This would be perfect for a backyard party or dinner out when you want to look like you made an effort—but not too much!
Just add some cute gold sandals and earrings, and you’re ready to have fun.
2. White Linen Pants and a Breezy Top
seersucker top | linen pants | sandals | knotted bag
Yes, you can still wear white pants on Labor Day. In fact, I think this is one of the best times to wear them!
I love white linen pants with a breezy striped seersucker top because the combination feels fresh and a touch nautical. Add some flat sandals, a light-colored bag, and a little jewelry, and you’re done.
This is probably the kind of outfit I’d choose for a casual BBQ or lunch when I want to be comfortable but still look like I made an effort.
And if it gets chilly once the sun goes down, toss a lightweight cardigan or denim jacket over your shoulders.
3. Navy Cropped Pants and a Striped Tee
cropped pants | striped top | silver sandals | knotted bag
There’s something about navy and stripes that feels so right at the end of summer, especially if you’re spending the weekend near the water.
These navy linen pants are relaxed and breezy, and I love them with this striped sweater tank. It gives the outfit a little nautical feel without going overboard.
Add flat sandals, a woven tote, and a simple necklace, and you’re good to go.
This would be a great look for a picnic, waterfront dinner, or backyard get-together because you look stylish yet comfortable enough to sit outside, eat, mingle, and enjoy yourself.
A Few Little Labor Day Style Tips
If you’re standing in front of your closet wondering what to wear, I’d keep it simple.
Go for lightweight fabrics like linen and cotton if it’s going to be hot. A sundress, white jeans, linen pants, or a pretty top is an easy starting point. Then add a great bag, sandals, or some jewelry to make the outfit feel a little more special.
Red, white, navy, stripes, and woven accessories also feel especially nice at this time of year, but you certainly don’t need to wear them all at once!
And yes, wear the white jeans. That old “no white after Labor Day” rule can stay right where it belongs—in the past.
Deb’s Takeaway
Labor Day is one of those weekends when you want to look nice, but you don’t want to fuss.
Keep it summery, keep it comfortable, add a few stylish touches, and enjoy these last beautiful days of the season.
What are you doing for Labor Day this year? Backyard BBQ, dinner out, weekend away? And most importantly, what are you wearing
I love your friend’s comment about the maxi dress! I haven’t tried one out yet b/c I’m short and apple-shaped and feel like I will look swamped in fabric or wearing a muumuu. Maybe next summer?
Julia
http://www.whenthegirlsrule.com
I love these looks and styles.
White pants are always a good choice.
Light colors are always welcome and chic in every situation.
Cheers
Hi Deborah,
I enjoy white pants for casual gatherings. They add a crispNess to an otherwise simple outfit. I am posting about white pants next week. I counted five pairs of white pants in my closet, so I am a firm believer ; )
Shellie
http://www.thefabjourney.com
I think white works at any time of year (so says InStyle magazine, anyway.) No white after Labor day is an old rule that went out with matching your purse and shoes. I think it just depends on how you wear the color and whether it’s appropriate.
I live WAY up North and have been reading that the “no white after Labour Day” rule no longer applies here. I’ve seen white pants, skirts, and tops on fashion blogs sporting the new winter look. You can take your summer whites and add a boot or jacket/sweater and look just as fresh for winter as you did in summer! I love that. Extending my wardrobe a bit longer, that is. ; )
I LOVE white pants. They are my go-to when I want to look nice but not overdressed. And I agree, a pop of color makes the outfit. Do I wear white after Labor Day? Absolutely! I’m a California girl, and the White After Labor Day Rule doesn’t apply here.
Charlene and all(… regarding colorful shoes,)
I think bright shoes can still be paired with a white jeans/colored top combo. The above example is casual and one great approach. Consider, though, a more polished approach to white jeans. Maybe bright, solid color, pointy-pumps with a matching color, or contrasting color silky top. Color blocking! With brilliant color taking center stage, minimalist jewelry and a neutral bag or clutch could smash.
And, I intend to wear winter whites way past Labor day. It took me a while to figure out that fashion sources mentioned “winter white” meant styling context and not a specific color!
I love wearing white jeans all summer and like neutral shoes to lengthen my leg. Since matching fun, colorful shoes with white jeans and colored tops are no more giant acceptable, is there any way to use all these tremendously bright shoes?
I love a white pants outfit head to toe! I have a great pair of lined Ann Taylor cropped white pants. I just wore them out with my hubby to dinner and a jazz concert at a club, along with a silk tunic top & dressier sandals (I should have taken a picture). Hoping for a chance to wear them again before the summer is over! :)
Yes, I definitely will wear it after Labor Day. I wear them until the weather changes.
I love the look! Great choices. And you know, I pretty much have that outfit in my wardrobe already – just never thought to put it together that way. Thanks for the ideas.