she does not return the
compliment in kind.

High hats are an abomination at opera or theater. Where anything is
worn upon the head, it should be in the shape of a tiny bonnet, a
dainty confection of tulle, flowers and ribbon.

This is especially necessary where a public conveyance must be made
use of to reach the place. At an opera matinee the bonnet must be worn
in connection with an elegant visiting or reception costume.

Middle-aged women wear the same costume at the opera that they would
at a dinner party.

Theater Costume.

To dress for the theater is a much simpler matter than for the opera.
Display is not required here. Elegant visiting or promenade costume is
appropriate. Dressy little bonnets or small hats, gloves, either
matching the gown or light in tint, complete the theater toilet. If a
large hat is worn to the theater, common courtesy demands its removal
that those in the rear may see the stage.

Dress for concerts admits of a little more display than for the
theater. A silk gown with a little lace and jewelry, and white or
light kid gloves.

Dinner Dress.

A lady's dinner dress may be elegant as her fancy dictates. But if she
is hostess she should never try to eclipse her guests. Trained gowns
are eminently suitable, and may be worn by maids or matrons alike.
Full length trains are not necessary, and even demi-trains need not be
worn by very young women. But the soft sweep of a train lends an added
grace to a woman's gown, and this is one of the few places where it
can be appropriately worn. The corsage may be cut square, or
heart-shaped, or opened at the throat in any pretty way, but never so
low as for a ball dress. Sleeves are usually half length, and
bracelets are given an opportunity for display. Long gloves must be
worn. As to color, all shades, from the safe selection of a black silk
or velvet, down to the palest tints, are in order, the only proviso
being that color and material suit the style of the wearer. An elderly
lady inclined to stoutness, and with a florid cast of countenance, is
at her worst in light silks or satin. They heighten her defects, while
darker shades subdue her coloring and serve to decrease her apparent
size and superfluous breadth.

For a young girl, a simple dress of wool goods in white, or pale
becoming tints, is all that is necessary. Open it slightly at the
throat, soften it with a little lace, show the pretty arms in a
demi-sleeve, and it is far more