Elderly ladies do not wear low-necked dresses, and those who do, throw a lace scarf or shawl over the shoulders. This may be some consolation to those ladies who do not own them. The dress may be very elegant for operas, consisting of a full evening costume, and the hair should be dressed with flowers or ornaments. Bonnets are not worn. The dress should be simple and inexpensive, but made nicely, and linen cuffs and collars are worn, or ruches.
Jewelry is forbidden by good taste.
On special reception days a lady may dress more expensively. A lady engaged in household affairs may see her callers in her morning dress, but it must always be neat. Black or brown or slate are nice relieved by bright colors in moderation. A riding habit should fit neatly without being too tight. If too long its entanglement may throw the rider, and at best it will be bespattered with mud or covered with dust.