Page:Book of Etiquette, Volume 2, by Lilian Eichler.djvu/225

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CHAPTER V

AT THE THEATER AND THE OPERA


DRESS AT THE THEATER AND OPERA

For a matinee a simple street dress of a dark material is appropriate except during the summer months when one may wear dainty fabrics and light colors.

In the evening if one is to sit in a box one should wear evening dress, not so elaborate, however, as that worn at a ball or dance. If one is to sit in the orchestra full or semi-evening attire is appropriate but in the cheaper seats such attire is out of order. Plain street dress should be worn.


ENTERING THE THEATER

There is one law of good conduct that cannot be over-emphasized—and that is the law of making oneself inconspicuous. A man or woman who is the "center of attraction" when the occasion does not merit it, cannot claim the distinction of being entirely well-bred. There seems to be a certain dignified simplicity and modesty in dress, speech and behavior that distinguishes well-bred people and enables them to move with ease and unconscious grace among people of every status and position.

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