The day after Labor Day leaves women in all over the United States wondering if they can still wear white. This is especially true for women in Tampa, since summer extends into October. Whose idea was this anyway? Labor Day traditionally marks the end of summer. Back in the time BAC (Before Air Conditioning), people of means left the crowded hot cities for their summer homes. They shed their dark and heavy city clothes and opted for lighter white clothes. Since Labor Day marked the end of summer and a return to the city, they packed away their whites until next summer.
In Tampa in the AAC (After Air Conditioning) days, lighter clothes are not really necessary, especially since most offices, restaurants, and any other public places keep their air conditioning so low, that sometimes a sweater is necessary. Besides, the Tampa summer does not officially end until after November 1, which marks the end of hurricane season and the generally accepted end of summer.
The fashion experts agree that white can now be worn year round, as long as some simple rules are followed. It is not necessarily the color of the clothes; it is the style and texture of the clothes. White blouses, pants, and dresses are still okay to wear. However the white sundresses, or any other color for that matter, should be retired until next summer. Put away the white purses, white shoes and the straw hats. This is the time to begin to embrace the cooler weather, or in Tampa terms, the breaking of the humidity. It may not be time for boots and jackets yet, but there are still plenty of choices available.
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