SOME SUGGESTIONS ABOUT DRESS

Dominion, Volume 2, Issue 318, 3 October 1908, Page 11

SOME SUGGESTIONS ABOUT DRESS

Evory now and.thon wo hear that black is a thing of the past (says an English paper), that it is unbecoming, and tends, to give an appearance of age; but this .experience is • not substantiated. At Court and at some of the best balls of' the season the ■ most distinctive drosses ' were '.black, . and . black net gowns worn over white or coloured slips, as well as over black, form part and parcel of every smart - woman's wardrobe. The coloured linings must- not be vivid; somewhat faded shades loQk best—pale greys, 'smoke blues, and the dark blue mauve—above all things, avoid wearing a belt and bow the game hue anywhere about the dress! Many of these gowns have' ribbon-braid trimmings, which form a pretty garniture in the form of a Greek border or an octopus or chrysanthemum. _• Black gowns, handsomely trimmed with white, have a great vogue this year, both for day and evening wear, but require to be very well done. Mohair, especially for travelling, is a stuff that can hardly bo too highly recommended, if of good quality and not' inclined to cockle; . it throws off the dust, and is almost as universally useful as Cheviot flannel. But mohair is suitable' for, cool days. ' Grey and black and ' white stripes make charming gowns for hard wear. Women starting on a tour are inclined to take an unlimited number of blouses; but unless thoy really'assimilate with the dress they are not to be ro--1 commended; Some of the smarter, blouses are made of, transparent material over colour, and display a grandfather frill down the front! Raffia, which'is woven from pampas : grass, has. been adopted by the great dressmakers, and makes pretty parasol handles, . often'.'.enriched'-'with, iiriitation stoftes and pearls; it has also been adapted to buckles, buttons, and hatpins./' So the fashionable woman is indebted to the banks of tho Congo for some of her adornments.