Over time, the holiday has become an unofficial signal to ditch the white clothes that filled our summertime wardrobe. However, the rule is more than a fashion no-no. According to personal image consultant Patrick Kenger, “white is a very formal color.” It was expensive to keep the clothes clean, and white uniforms typically meant the person wearing it was one of leisure. Those in high society wore it to stay cool. However, when the summer ended, they had to return to work and trade in their white clothes for darker ones. This was because darker clothes were more practical for work. The change marked the end of summer and the beginning of the work season. So, if the rule isn’t for you or you’re in denial about summer ending and work starting — wear your white!