Can I Wear White Shoes After Labour Day?

Yes. There is still some summer weather outside, so enjoy. Want to make it last longer? I’ll tell you how.

I want to meet, “they”. Who are these people who tell us that summer is over after Labour Day and it’s time to eliminate all white clothing and footwear from our wardrobe? Is it scientific? No, it’s not even based on any reality. So, “they”, I have news for you, there’s still some summer left to enjoy. Here’s how to extend the season a little longer.

First, get out your white shoes and wear them as long as you want. Next, if someone asks you when summer is over, I will personally let you know. I am a harbinger of seasonal change, or actually, my neighbors are, their air conditioner goes on before the snow melts and goes off shortly before the first flake flies. I’ll keep you posted.

Extend the season with an outdoor fireplace

But the way to stretch out the season, whether you have a backyard or a balcony, is to embrace your outdoor space and make it a “room” with benefits. Start with the warmth of a fire.

Controlled fires from gas or wood-burning fire pits aren’t allowed in all neighborhoods but you can consider a tabletop flame like the Eco Feu Sunset Ethanol Fireplace. It will give off heat and a beautiful flame. Choose matte black for a modern look.

Add some outdoor lighting

Speaking of light, outdoor string or rope lights are not just for Christmas. If you resisted hanging a line of vintage-looking Edison bulbs all summer because you’re worried about what “they” would say, just do it.

Lights twinkling in the night look fantastic and offer a festive and inviting glow. I also augment my outdoor lighting with lots of candles. Lanterns in various sizes, randomly placed around and on tables, looks elegant and adds to the ambience. I tend to use tall pillars as opposed to votive candles but you can never have too many, whichever you choose.

Stay cozy with a throw

If you start to feel a little chill from the evening air, throw on a throw. Fleece, wool, hand-knit or store bought, it doesn’t matter, if it keeps you cozy that’s all that matters.  I like to have over-sized baskets filled with extra throws for guests, so we can all hunker down when we toast marshmallows, or enjoy eggnog. Just kidding, I’m not that much of a rebel.

Outdoor fabrics are tough

Today’s outdoor fabrics, like those made by Sunbrella are made to stand up to scorching sun and all the other elements weather puts us through. So, go for lots of pillows. Like a sofa indoors, or your bed, you can never have too many.

Introduce some faux greenery

Even when the trees start changing colour and losing their leaves it can’t hurt to introduce some faux greenery into your outdoor space. Boxwoods planters are great if you like the traditional look or you can recreate your own Margaritaville with faux palm trees. So what if “they” laugh at your folly. You’re the one having fun looking for salt shakers.

Year-round outdoor furnishings

I’m impressed with how furnishings have migrated outdoors, they’re made for the elements and look good enough to bring indoors. Even simple shelving can stay outside year-round. If you have a sheltered area, this can be the perfect place to set up a bar or display area for accessories and hardy plants.

Make the season last as long as you can. Do not go gently into the next season before enjoying every last bit of summer no matter what “they” say.