it doesn't get any more classic than white sailor pants and a blue striped shirt in the summer
I recently received a summer bulletin about dressing casual and reminding club members that “what may look smashing on Main Street is not necessarily appropriate for the clubhouse.” The reminder generated a rolling of eyes at lunch from a friend who is also a member. We both wondered what it is about the summer that gives people an excuse to look rather déshabillé?
When did beach attire became accepted dining attire? It can’t only be about the hot weather since most dining places are air conditioned. Even on those occasions when people dine alfresco, I’ve found that linen and fine cotton are fabulous ways to stay cool and look smashing. I’ll even go so far as to say that a long sleeve shirt in a light weight linen fabric is far cooler than a snug t-shirt. The loose sleeves allow your skin to breathe and prevent sunburn on your arms.
Granted as the weather gets warmer, people everywhere want to stay cool. But is that a reason for shirts to give way to skimpy halter tops and for pants to shrink by 3 feet. Perhaps if you’re in an informal milieu it’s the correct attire. However, when you’re meeting someone for a spot of tea (or a drink) in a more formal club setting, it’s just not appropriate. When we go to swim, if we decide to stay for dinner, we pack a change of clothes. My children understand the message that there’s one outfit for swimming and another outfit for dining. Children learn from what they experience. If they see others wearing questionable attire they may think it’s permitted. Maybe that explains the written reminder from the club. Summer guests tend to be younger and perhaps they were never taught by their parents how to dress.
