Fashionable Parties

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXX, Issue 21414, 11 February 1933, Page 6 (Supplement)

Fashionable Parties

The late afternoon party has become fashionable. It began in London several years ago, says an exchange. The party begins as a rule about four o'clock, and may last till six or seven; if, however, dancing is provided, and this form of entertainment grows increasingly popular, then the young folk may stay on till much later—till eight, nine or ten. The late afternoon party has obvious disadvantages for the busy hostess, who has all her own work to- do, for she must either have help or disorganise the running of her home for the day. The late afternoon party may be given in honour of one particular guest, to wish the bride-to-be all happiness, to say farewell to some friend going overseas, or it may be given because a hostess wishes to gather many of her friends about her. She must first decide whether she will have it in her own home, or, if she be in any large city, at one of the many reception rooms or suites available for parties and dances. If she is having It outside her home she has little preparation to do. She must engage the rooms, consult with the' proprietress on the floral decorations and the refreshments to be served, and send out the invitations. If she has it in her own' home she has much more to do, but it

IN THE LATE AFTERNOON

is worth this trouble, for the party in the hostess's own home is \isually a much more informal and delightful affair than one given elsewhere. The invitations may he sent out formally on printed cards, or they may be written by hand or even given by word of mouth. The hostess must give considerable attention to the preparation of her home for the party. Even for the small party she will find it a better arrangement for the guests to meet in one room and go on to the dining-room for refreshments, and for a very large party three, or more rooms may be necessary. Special attention should be given to the flowers, for they should look their best. Lovely flowers add much to the festive appearance of a room, and create an atmosphere which makes the party happier and more successful. Cigarettes and plenty of ash trays should be provided, and dishes of sweets, devilled almonds, etc., can also be placed about the room, as well as on the afternoon tea tables. Informality is one of th© chief attractions of these late afternoon parties. Afternoon frocks are worn at these parties but they are usually dressy, pretty frocks. Most hostesses nowadays prefer to wear a hat even when the party is in their own homes, but there is no fixed rule about this, and the hostess who prefers to wear no hat may certainly do bo.