THE WORLD OF FASHION

New Zealand Graphic, Volume XXXVI, Issue 1, 6 January 1906, Page 62

THE WORLD OF FASHION

(TV

MARGUERITE.)

This sketch represents a “general utility" blouse of black chiffon with removable vest of closely-patterned ecru laee mounted on chiff on ; sf rappings of black velvet ribbon, and narrow jet

passementerie on bodice and sleeves. Clo>e-ff fling cuff’s to match the vest may be added for those who do not care for elbow sleeves.

Already the question of seaside attire for the children’s holiday is beginning to agitate our minds. The main points to be considered are, of course, that the garments should be comfortable, cool, and simple: and that the materials from which they are constructed should b' light in weight, fairly durable, and not too delicate in colour. Of all summer fabrics, brown holland is. in my opinion the most serviceable and sensible material for children's wear on the beach. It scarcely shows the stains of wet sand and seaweed, and it is absolutely proof against the rapid disappearance of colour which is the fate of dainty pinks and blues under the influence of sun and sea air. Certainly, holland is not invariably becoming, especially to fair children; but it can easily be made so by touches of scarlet or blue, and- by the addition of a dainty little vest or collar.

First, of course, comes the question of colour. Every conceivable shade, from pure white to a very excellent black, is obtainable in the various weaves of linen tins season. Some of the colours are much more successful than others. Amon<> the darker shades a rather bright navv blue, a beautiful deep purple, and a lovely tone of strawberry-red are particu-

larly charming. In more delicate colours there are exquisite tones of lilyleaf green and forget-me-not blue—delightfully girlish, and perfectly harmonious with country surroundings. In spite of this feast of colour, however, it is well to remember that nothing is more generally becoming than white. Many a woman who in a coloured dress presents a commonplace and most ordinary appearance will look quite charming and distinguished when gowned in a dainty white frock.

I his blouse was set into a kind of box pleats from just about the bend of the figure, while above this again was a very pretty full capelet or deep frill cut upon the round, so that the upp r part fitted the figure and the lower part fluted in the most becoming fashion. Above this frill, and holding the yoke in position, was a broad band of cream-coloured lace worked with jet s quins. The frill itself was worked with tiny jet sequins set at the -extreme edge, and the sleeves, which were very full and gathered at the inside seam, were finished below the elbow with a tight gauntlet, also of the black material. hut banded three times with the cream-coloured laee and jet trimming. The yoke-pieee of this pretty gown was made entirely from tucked chiffon, the tucks being set perpendicularly from throat to waist: while a single band of lace, ornamented with iet sequins, fashioned the collar-band. Such a yoke-pieee. of course, could be removed at a mo ment s notice, and the sleeves themselves could be arranged so that the lower tight part could be easily removed. By such means, you see. this nretty blouse would be useful for day and evening wear.