Preparations.

As far as styles are concerned, simple day-time frocks vary the shirtwaist type. Pipings, stitchings, novel sleeve and shoulder cuts, varied necklines, pockets, tab and button trims, lend themselves to variety. Add to this the wide choice of plain and printed materials, and you will see that no sports frock need be a replica of another.

With linen frocks, have a beach hat of linen or straw for picnic occasions, and a plain but smart straw for “better” wear. A short or three-quarter linen coat, to tone with all your sports frocks, will allow you to add a touch of formality if necessary. Linen gloves, printed or plain, are a cool and smart accessory.

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For long days in the open, a triangle scarf, carelessly knotted at the throat, lends interest to an outfit and also protects the neck from over-exposure.

For the semi-formal frock, materials and styles are manifold. Flattering modes are puffed, pouched or slashed sleeves, elbow or three-quarter length; draped bodices; high neck-lines; panels of pleating, unusual belts such as white pique matching the collar and cuffs on a dark crepe printed in a tiny white design, metal magnificence on a subdued dull-finished material or the swathed two-colour sash.

For wearing on into the evenings, leading dress houses sponsor the tailored frock of a gorgeous material such as lamé or cloque. The contrast between material and style is amazingly effective.

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The summer dance frock is a lovely thing in its apparent simplicity. The skirt fullness may puff out, delightfully Victorian, or be smoothed away in flat pleats or unobtrusive flares. Organza, georgette, mousseline, tulle (lovely names!) will float, etherealized under the lights, one with the night as are the moths which waver in from the darkness of trees.