COSTUMES
There is a tradition of Arcadian simplicity in dress, but it is not always observed. The men, unless Poets, are often most careful dressers, and the women deck themselves in whatever garb they deem most attractive to men.
White muslin with blue ribbons is a popular costume, and “some sort of white, shimmering stuff” is much used for gowns.
Some women are clever enough to please the men by wearing all black or all white, and the hats are invariably large black ones or broad-leafed, rose-decked straws.
Sunshades, fans, floating scarfs, and many coy adjuncts or fripperies of dress are seen, and flowers are much worn or carried.
THEN AND NOW
Oh, would I had lived in Arcadian days,
When maidens had not such extravagant ways,
When Daphne and Doris
And Chloe and Chloris
Would laugh with delight o’er a ribbon of blue
Or a glittering buckle to wear on a shoe.
But the girl of today cares nothing at all
For a trivial gift that is simple or small;
And Ethel and Bessie
And Gertrude and Jessie
Will only approve of the presents I’ve brought
If I spend (and I shall!) ten times more than I ought.