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Thursday, June 5, 2014

Blank Canvas Attire





Rag & Bone RTW SS14; Credit
 
 
I have been thinking about the reason for the no white before Memorial Day rule quite a lot lately. I try to leave fashion rules that are outdated in the dust as much as possible and not because I enjoy defying conventions. On the contrary, I strongly believe that some fashion rules should not be broken because they were established to ensure there is decorum in how a person should dress at certain venues, for instance. These fashion don’ts consist of rules such as don’t wear mini-skirts and don’t display too much cleavage in a professional business office. I can certainly uphold these rules because I agree that a violation of these type of codes can result in a negative reaction that simply should not be risked in the workplace; however, I hope you agree with me that wearing white before Memorial Day is not going to cause mass pandemonium. Note: All Jill Stuart RTW SS14 runway photos are courtesy of Style.com. All Rag & Bone photos are courtesy of Vogue.com.
 
Jill Stuart RTW SS14


Rag & Bone RTW SS14

 

Why then was this rule created? Isn’t white as equally deserving as other colors to be worn before Memorial Day? Who created this rule anyway? Why was it created? These are the sort of questions that have been floating around in my head and, as usual, when I have questions such as this I set about finding the answers. I had no idea when I began that it would be almost impossible to identify what sparked the no white before Memorial Day rule; however, what I did find was that in the late 1800s and early 1900s extremely wealthy socialites were primarily given credit for creating this fashion rule when they decided that white should be limited to weddings and resort weather. By the 1950s, this rule was firmly in the etiquette books.
 Many notable ladies, however, have happily disregarded this fashion rule. Regardless of when you decide to wear white, whether you are a stickler for the rules or you dare to wear white year-round like the iconic Coco Chanel, I am sure you will agree with me that the white attire looks below are simply unforgettable.
 
First Lady Michelle Obama; Credit
 
Diane Kruger; Credit
Jennifer Lawrence; Credit

Marion Cotillard; Credit
Emma Watson; Credit
Victoria Beckham; Credit
 
Charlize Theron; Credit


 
I have always considered white to be a blank canvas because a single white separate can really be used to create any type of fashion artistry that I choose. I can also decide to leave the canvas entirely blank by wearing all white pieces to fashion an eye-catching look. When everyone else is wearing colors don’t you always remember the woman in white? The ladies below certainly are in-the-know about the charm of white attire.
 
Kim Kardashian; Credit
 
Anna Wintour; Credit
 
 

 
Beyoncé; Credit


White, or the blank canvas as I refer to it, creates drama and glamour when it is paired with black. Think about houndstooth, striped separates and zebra prints. Isn’t the imagery immediate and strong? Simply put, black and white have chemistry and I love chemistry.

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Chanel Iman; Credit
 
 

 
Rag & Bone RTW SS14
 
Jill Stuart RTW SS14


 
 
Rag & Bone RTW SS14
 
Rag & Bone RTW SS14
 


 
Diane Von Furstenberg RTW SS14; Credit


 



 
White is just as powerful when it plays a supporting role rather than a co-lead role. Matching white clothing, for instance, with bold-colored clothing consistently results in a vibrant look. I love pairing white with red, which is my favorite color, when I want to create a memorable look. An instantly powerful look is also created when white is paired with fuchsia, orange and my favorite green shade, emerald.
 
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It also plays the supporting role well when paired with pastels.  It lets these softer shades shine without taking away from their soothing impact. Pastels don’t fade when matched with white; they sparkle. 
 
Rag & Bone RTW SS14
 
Rag & Bone RTW SS14
 
 
Rag & Bone RTW SS14
 

Before I go, here are some helpful tips:

·         There are different shades of white so just make sure when wearing white on white the shades mesh well.

·         Nude, blush and silver accessories look fantastic with white outfits and can help break-up an all-white look since these colors are neutrals.

·         Accessories and jewelry in brilliant shades such as royal blue, red, orange and many other bright colors play their roles well when partnered with white clothing.

 

Now, I want to hear from you. Do you break the no white before Memorial Day rule? Do you think this rule should be removed from the fashion etiquette list?
 
Until next time, I leave you with the looks below. Check out how starlets, bloggers and other like-minded fashionistas style their white garments.
Jamie Chung; Credit
Kate Beckinsale; Credit
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Katie Holmes; Credit
 

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Olivia Palermo; Credit

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Check out my Keaton Row lookbook, The Cool Effect, to see how I styled white pieces. If interested in any of the clothing and accessories just click on the above link to directly access the lookbook or contact me.










Top to Bottom: Topshop Daisy Burnout Crop Top, Asos Min-Skirt with Notch Hem, Asos Thames Shoe Boots, Anne Klein Fan Cluster Clip Earrings, Monserat De Lucca Measuring Tape Bracelet, Asos Retro Navy Sunglasses, Furla Candy-Mini Top Handle Crossbody Ink Bag






                                                                                                                                               
 

 

                                                                                                                                                                            






92 comments:

  1. I remember as a child being told about the white rule before Memorial Day. Now that I think about it, it's absolutely silly. Especially while living in a warm climate and just about every season looks and feels like summer. I have a confession to make, I have an obsession with white tops and I have over 20 :)

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    Replies
    1. Wow, Glenda. I wish I had that many. I love them too. They really are just effortless. I remember asking when I was a child why there was such a rule about white. I was just told that it was always improper but not given a satisfactory reason. I think it is a ridiculous rule.

      Sharon

      Delete
  2. Estas nominada a los premios Liebster Award, pasate por mi blog
    http://sicoppeliavistieradeprada.blogspot.com.es/2014/06/estoy-nominada-los-premios-liebster.html

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks, Elia. I will be stopping by your blog for sure to check out that Liebster award nomination. I am happy that you enjoy reading my posts.

      Sharon

      Delete
  3. Me encanta el color blanco para este tiempo.
    Bss guapa
    http://unvestidorconideas.blogspot.com.es

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks for your comment. It is very much appreciated.

      Sharon

      Delete
  4. The white color is perfect for summer, great post! :)

    http://fashionimperfect.blogspot.it/

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi, Solange:

      Thanks for stopping by. I am so glad you like the post.

      Sharon

      Delete
  5. Black & white are pretty much the only colors I wear all the time, no matter the season. I love the dress Emma Watson is wearing and the Rag & Bone S/S 2014 collection is one of my favourites. X

    http://www.blancivory.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi, Amy:

      Black and white are just so striking together and instantly elegant. I can understand why you have such love for this color duo. I do as well. The
      Rag & Bone collection is utterly captivating. It is one of my favorite SS14 collections for sure.

      Sharon

      Delete
  6. Love the post :) I nominated you for a Liebster Award check it out here

    http://apotofvintageplease.blogspot.co.uk/2014/06/my-second-liebster-award.html

    xx

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you so much, Lucy. I will stop by your post and read about the award. I am so happy you enjoyed this blog post.

      Sharon

      Delete
  7. Love all of these looks! X

    www.carlaginola.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you, Carla. I appreciate your visit and comment so much.

      Sharon

      Delete
  8. Hi Sharon,
    What a lovely looks
    Love Canvas!
    I have done following your blog :)

    Love,
    Adhi Wahyudi
    http://adhiwahyudi.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi, Adhi:

      Thanks so much. I am following you on GFC.

      Sharon

      Delete
  9. Replies
    1. Thanks so much. I think your blog is excellent. Love it.
      .
      Sharon
      http://www.afashioncrowd.blogspot.com

      Delete
  10. Hi sweet Sharon,
    total white is one of my favorite summer trend.
    It's so elegant
    I love your pics, you've inspired me.
    Kisses
    Maggie D.
    The Indian Savage Diary

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks, Maggie. I am happy that you got inspired by this post. That means a lot to me. I always look forward to reading your posts. I hope you have a great week.

      Sharon

      Delete
  11. Perfect Sharon...I wait you on Bloglovin

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi, Susana:

      Thank you so much. I am following you back.

      Sharon

      Delete
  12. I agree with you Sharon. White is a perfect, stylish and elegant color after and before MD
    I love wearing total white on summer and sometimes in winter.
    Great post dear!

    Lady Trends
    http://myladytrends.blogspot.com.es/ NEW POST!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi, Rosa:

      I am happy you visited. Thank you very much.

      Sharon

      Delete
  13. Love these looks. All white outfits are definitely a must for spring/summer. I've followed you on bloglovin' and via google+. I couldn't find your GFC link however.

    Please follow my blog via GFC xx
    www.fashionkiller.co.uk

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi, Lauren:

      Thanks so much, Lauren. I have followed you on google plus and am heading over to Bloglovin now to follow you there too.

      Sharon

      Delete
  14. I currently love white clothes/ pieces and I think I don't pay much attention to fashion "rules" on how and when wearing white... I also think white is a basic in a closet! Thank you for this amazing comment on my post "Some Like It Hot", I've also replied to it on my blog ;) xx

    http://trend-mae.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks, Maeva. I am glad you stopped by for a visit. I value your comments.

      Sharon

      Delete
  15. I love the White + Black look . It makes everything looks chic. I will be following your blog.

    -www.laideetam.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you, Laidee, for visiting. I will be following you back.

      Sharon

      Delete
  16. I absolutely love black and white! Such a classic look. Following you on Google+ and Bloglovin now....check me out!

    http://www.michellexoxo.com
    http://www.instagram.com/luvmichellexo

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi, Michelle:

      I have followed you back on both sites. Have a great week.

      Sharon

      Delete
  17. In love with the all white looks *-*

    Bisous !
    Sofia
    http://nuagedemoutons.blogspot.fr/

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. They are lovely. Thanks for your visit and comment, Sofia. I will be stopping by your blog, as well.

      Sharon

      Delete
  18. Great post the images was very inspirational to me. I love white it is a neutral colour that goes well with everything.
    Thanks for visiting my blog :)
    I'm going to follow you on bloglovin and google+

    Glace
    http://glaceylace.blogspot.co.uk

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks so much, Glace. I am so glad you found them to be inspiring. I will be following you back.

      Sharon

      Delete
  19. I love a nice crisp black or white outfit. It just makes the person look so put together. I especially love Kim K. in her white outfit. She looks very mature and classy.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks for your comment, Samantha. I appreciate your visit so much. Have a great week.

      Sharon

      Delete
  20. Replies
    1. Hi, Dario:

      Thank you for visiting. I just love that dress. It is one of my favorite of her award show looks. I will be stopping by your blog for a visit.

      Sharon

      Delete
  21. Wishing you an adorable week my sweet Sharon.
    Kisses
    Maggie D
    The Indian Savage diary

    ReplyDelete
  22. Agreed! Fantastic crisp, white threads! ;D Hope all is well.

    ♥ | http://www.connect-the-cloths.com | xoxo
    http://blogspotter.co/connect-the-cloths/

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi, Carsla:

      Thanks for visiting. I appreciate it so much. I hope you have a wonderful week.

      Sharon

      Delete
  23. White can do no wrong. Thank you so much for sharing this post.
    Loved reading it & would you like to follow each other via GFC
    Google+ & Bloglovin? Lemme know!
    & Keep in touch!

    X
    http://subhamrai.blogspot.in/

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks, Subham. I am pleased that you like this post. Your blog is wonderful. I have followed you on Google + and Bloglovin.

      Sharon

      Delete
  24. Really awesome !!!!!
    Black & White is my favorite, Really nice blog, Keep it Sharon
    Fashion Mart

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks so much, Sachin. I very much appreciate your comment.

      Sharon

      Delete
  25. Love All white looks!
    Perfect for almost every occassion.
    x Sandra

    www.morestylethanfashion.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I so agree, Sandra. Thanks for visiting.

      Sharon

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  26. Replies
    1. Hi, Dario:

      Thanks so much for visiting. Emma is fast becoming a style start to watch.

      Sharon

      Delete
  27. Sharon this such a great post! I love everything you picked here. That measurement tape bracelet caught my eye - how cute! Great job!

    http://robesandgarments.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you. I am happy you stopped by. Your comment means so very much to me.

      Sharon

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    2. White on white is perfect for Summer. I live in Canada so white before memorial day does not apply here... Lol
      Effortlesslady.blogspot.ca

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    3. This comment has been removed by the author.

      Delete
    4. Thanks for your visit and comment, Diana.

      Sharon

      Delete
  28. This is the second time I see this post and I'm still thrilled ! This trend is really and heartcrush for me :)


    Bisous !
    Sofia
    http://nuagedemoutons.blogspot.fr/

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks for returning, Sofia. I am working on my next post. I hope you come back soon. I appreciate your visit and cherish your kind words.

      Sharon

      Delete
  29. I really appreciate this article! So much usefull information. White is my favorite color, I can't imagine my life without it. This is a universal color, there are so many possible combinations!

    Instagram
    RococoStyle.com

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    1. Hi, Eva:

      Thank you so much. That is so kind of you. I adore white as well.

      Sharon

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  30. I love black & white... so stylish...

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    1. It certainly is, Nicky. That color duo can create such striking looks together.

      Sharon

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  31. I've always liked how white and total white outfits look, and I don't really care much about if this trend says so or no... I dress for myself, to feel good and confident, and I don't care if it's a tradition, or whatever what says that ''you can't wear this or that''...

    Thanks for the comment on my blog by the way!
    Amanda
    www.somethingfashion.es

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi, Amanda:

      I appreciate your comment and agree with it completely. It is all about dressing for yourself. That is what true style is.

      Sharon

      Delete
  32. I didn't know about the white rule before the Memorial day... Anyway, I'm a great fan of white. I had lots of summer items in this colour. And I love total white look too paired with statement accessories.
    Great post and selection of pics, Sharon!
    Kisses
    Oriana

    www.stylexis.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you, Oriana. I love the white on white look even if I find it difficult to keep the outfit looking clean and crisp all day. I love a tailored white pants suit. They are divine.

      Sharon

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  33. Replies
    1. They are so fabulous. Thanks so much for commenting, Gail. I hope you have a great weekend.

      Sharon

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  34. I love this total look White!!

    www.fashiongivesmewings.blogspot.it

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    Replies
    1. It is magnifique. I am enthralled with all-white looks. Thanks for visiting, Elisabetta.

      Sharon

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  35. Me gusta el blanco casi tanto como el negro. Tanto en looks totales como combinados. Pero si es cierto q ir hay q evitarlo en una boda, por respeto a la novia! Ella es la protagonista. Me gustan mucho tus post siempre tan elaborados. Enhorabuena!
    Bsss

    http:/www.diseneitorforever.blogspot.com.es

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. White and black are spectacular together. Thanks so much for your comment, Emilia. Your blog is wonderful. I always look forward to your posts.

      Sharon

      Delete
  36. Replies
    1. Thank you, Nevena. It means so much to me when I receive such compliments as yours. It helps keep me working hard to ensure I write with integrity and that the quality of my writing remains an important focus. I value my readers and followers so much. Thank you for following me. I have followed you back.

      Sharon

      Delete
  37. I love the outfits. Makes me feel like I want to wear white today :)

    STYLE VANITY

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    1. Hi, Alyssa:

      They are gorgeous. I have multiple favorites. I did my job if you want to immediately wear white :).

      Sharon

      Delete
  38. absolutely love this post! loving all the black and white outfits!

    lifeisashoe.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks so much. I am glad you enjoyed the post. I appreciate your visit.

      Sharon

      Delete
  39. Amazing inspirational pictures!
    Love summer whites


    Tatyana
    Secret little Stars
    www.secretlittlestars.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I am pleased that you like the pictures, Tatyana. Thanks so much for visiting.

      Sharon

      Delete
  40. Gorgeous pictures. I ♥♥♥ the monochrome look. So sleek and simple!

    Kisses, Selorm Xx | SheJustTalks

    ReplyDelete
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    1. Thank you, Selorm. I am glad you visited and liked the post.

      Sharon

      Delete
  41. White is one of my favorite colors to wear! I have broke the rule of no wearing white before memorial day. I never even remember that rule, and think it should be removed because I know many people have broke the rule as well. Love the pictures you chose by the way :)

    ReplyDelete
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    1. Thanks so much for your detailed comment, Samantha, and for visiting. I look forward to staying in touch.

      Sharon

      Delete
  42. lovely pictures , you have a an awesome blog here.

    StyleandBeautyLounge

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    Replies
    1. Thank you, Uzo, for the compliment. I am glad you enjoyed this post. Let's stay in touch. I am a follower of your blog on Google + and have also just followed you on Bloglovin.

      Sharon
      http://www.afashioncrowd.blogspot.com

      Delete
  43. beautiful post sharon! i like really more the pictures! i love white for me this is the essential of the summer! it's fresh, and i can match all with that!!!!!!
    XoXo
    Angelus Says

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    Replies
    1. Thanks so much, Angelus. I am glad you enjoyed the post and pictures.

      Sharon

      Delete
  44. always great post, i'm addicted to your blog looking forward to your new post
    http://oyebamireismail.blogspot.com/

    ReplyDelete