Yes, in September you will still need linen clothing. As an alterntive... Cotton? Silk? But remember to pack also a sweater or some other piece of warm clothing because the evenings will probably be cool.

Could somebody please tell this misinformed Brit what a "maven" is? (2 refernces in earlier postings here).<BR><BR>Many thanks

Aren't they having a heat wave and drought in Southern Italy. I would wear linen there if I were you.

Completely understand your question. Completely understand about washable linen, have a nice little suitcase-ful for summer trips & New York life (C.P. Shades, Flax, Cut Loose, for example).<BR><BR> Would not continue with white linen in the fall in New York, in an autumn heat wave I would wear the deep colors however, and glad to know I can take them to Italy, with some nice jewelry and scarves.<BR><BR> This thread makes me want to go to Italy in the fall, with a (imaginary) beautiful gold linen two piece dress and (also imaginary) black hair, big gold earrings, and open-toed sling-back shoes.

Hi, Pearl. It's a matter of weight. Dark colors "weigh" more than light. In fall and winter - actually it has more to do with temperature and the location of the sun, therefore length of shadows - clothing should have greater weight. Why? - oh, who knows - except that heavier, whether in actuality or perception, is obviously warmer. Therefore, even if the fabric is lighter weight, literally, the color can make for a warmer, figuratively, and therefore, more appropriate, look. The "look" will be discerned by those who see something and recognize if it "works" or seems out of place. None of this is sensical. If you aren't an artist at heart, you'll just go "blah blah blah" in response to this. But since you asked, I suspect you have an inherent understanding about the weight of fabric and color. In Italy in winter, the shadows will be longer than in the summer but shorter than winter shadows in more northern climates. Jeez - it's just too much. In September it's still HOT in Rome, cooler farther north, but the sun won't be as high, so you'll be shaded by buildings. Does this make any sense? No? Indeed. Just have a campari and enjoy yourself regardless! No one will be looking.

Aha, I think I've got it! Warmer but shorter days, darker and warmer colors, <BR>getting into that Autumn kind of feeling. So linen in darker colors is fine. Makes sense to me. <BR>I like the idea of the gold suit, mules and gold earrings myself. Linen should be on sale now to make my decision even easier.

Is linen sexy after Labour Day? Do you too find casual clothes too restricting?

OK after 66 replies it's time to ask Martha Stewart if she will be wearing linen after Labo(u)r Day. Linen? I don't think so.

TTT

I think Martha can whip up a nice black and white striped linen outfit to wear in the pen.

Lordy, I didn't think I was going to ever get involved in another clothing thread (hah), but can't resist:<BR><BR>You might want to leave room in your suitcase to buy some linen in Italy. I just bought a lovely black linen skirt with an uneven hemline at a street market. Quite inexpensive and I wore it the rest of my trip. Last year I bought linen pants. There should be lots of Italian linen on sale in September.

Marilyn:<BR><BR>The last summer clothes are for sale now, in a couple of weeks in Italian shops you will find only winter clothing, although summer will be still warming us (as long as there are no more storms like the ones of the first part of this week).