Undressed kid gloves, either light or dark shades, are also worn especially for afternoon receptions.
The Foot.—The leathers used are patent, and enamel. Laced Bluchers are worn at this time of day. For summer wear, the same, or the same leathers made in ties. Again, I caution you to pay particular attention to the fit, and have them made to order. You exercise your own taste as to the style the shoe is made in.
The Body.—The proper body-coat is the black cutaway. This is now made with three buttons, and wide collar cut low, single-breasted. The material used is diagonal. This body-coat should be of light weight, as it is a dress body-coat. French Thibets are also used.
The Waistcoat.—This is made of the same material as the body-coat. It may be double or single breasted. The waistcoat should be cut low in front, that the large puff scarf may be well exposed. Four buttons.
Waistcoats may be of selected materials such as fancy serges and fine linens. In summer white or black silk sashes are worn.
The Trousers.—These should be carefully selected and well-fitted. The material and pattern should go well with black, as this is always the color of the afternoon body-coat.
Any pattern, checks, stripes, etc., may be worn for afternoon dress. Never wear loud patterns; they are exceedingly bad taste and rowdyish.
Never wear trousers of the same material as the body-coat or waistcoat, as it is not afternoon dress.
Very light patterns may be worn in summer. In winter slightly darker patterns are worn.
If pockets are placed in trousers they are apt to be used; this spoils the set of the cloth around the hips. Therefore leave them out if possible.