Yesterday afternoon I completed my typical post-Labor Day tradition of dropping off my linen and seersucker to the dry cleaner. I was going to throw a few white things in the load as well, but then thought about it for a few minutes. While I am traditional in the fact I wouldn't wear madras after Labor Day, I do think that one could get away with wearing white in a limited amount.

Preppy plus size clothes Lilly Pulitzer
 
Even though I mostly eschew black, I do think black & white will always be a very timeless & chic look. White straight leg denim, a black cashmere cowl neck sweater, black booties with a gold dangle or two is a perfect example of an incredibly easy outfit that looks completely put together.
 
Be choosy on your fabrics; A white gauzy skirt or dress is best put away, but poplin white slacks would be just fine to leave in your closet.  Of course, a white blouse or sweater is always acceptable. Being mindful of your activities is also a good hint for looking good in white. The black sweater/white denim outfit I mentioned before? Fantastic for a double date with friends. White jeans to an outdoor activity in October? Eh...not so much.
 
White accessories such as handbags and shoes should be put away, as well as most nautical motifs (unless you live on a coast somewhere) and tropical anything (unless you live in Hawai'i or Florida).

Is there a proper time to start wearing white? I always base my answer off the weather. In my neck of the woods, I typically start wearing white after the Kentucky Derby. Now, the Derby is held in early May, and there's an equal chance of having snow or 90 degree temperatures. If the Derby is looking chilly, I'll hold off on my whites until Memorial Day.

And as always, if you're wearing white, don't forget a take a Tide-To-Go pen!