Dear Hildegarde: Your Questions Answered

Dear Hildegarde,

I live in southern Arizona and the weather here is always warm and sunny. I have a white outfit that I would like to wear to a party and it has white shoes which match. My grandmother told me that it is "improper" to wear white at this time of year. I don't understand--it is basically like Summer here all year round. Why does it matter? Please let me know what to do.

Sincerely,

Wanting White

Dear Wanting White,

I think that it is just lovely that you have such a rapport with your grandmother that you receive advice from her, especially good advice. I must say, dear reader, that your grandmother is correct. White shoes (and accompanying handbags) are NEVER to be worn before Memorial Day or after Labor Day (and certainly NEVER with dark stockings as you will look like a street walker). Those persons of charm and those "in the know" are aware of this rule and follow it to the letter. Even if you feel that you don't travel in such circles, you will certainly look like you do if you conform in this regard. Don't you want to put forward your charming, most attractive self to others? The only exceptions to this rule are if you are participating in a debutante presentation or serving in the capacity of a page at a function of your local State Society or National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Pages are to wear white shoes and gloves with the accompanying white ball gown unless otherwise deemed by the respective meeting's presiding officer. Perhaps this organization might be for you if you enjoy wearing white all year round! One must be directly descended from a man or woman who assisted in achieving American Independence from Britain to be eligible for membership. The invitation to join comes through the local Society. For more information about the DAR, please visit this organization's lovely website: www.dar.org.

Until next time...

HF

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