posted 09-19-2011 10:16 AM            

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THE PRECIOUS GIRDLE
With Notes of Other flatters of Interest to the Fair.

The most expensive method of smartening a plain velvet gown is to wear with it one of the new girdles of precious metals. The girdle is no relative of the belt, but is used in a manner altogether different. It is formed of plates an inch wide and an inch and a half long, linked together with rings. The latest fancy is to have one of antique book clasps, curiously worked by the gold or silversmith. If the clasps have been taken from some ancient missal they probably show some tiny scene or figure from scriptural authorities of the lives of the saints. In one or two cases a date is found on the reverse of the clasp. Of course, these subjects can be copied by a clever worker In metals, and the desirable look of antiquity can be given in a way that makes it difficult to detect an original antique from adroit imitation. The girdle chain is intended to be tacked through the rings, in the middle of the back, at the bodice, as far as possible below the waist line. On no account must it be at the waist. The girdle is long enough to pass over the shoulders. It does not unclasp, but it may be said to terminate with a bon bonniere or pomander box, which hangs far below the waist, in front. The general effect produced is of the girdle worn by generations of stage Marguerites. It must look as if it were about to fall off, but in reality the firm stitching at the back of the corsage holds it steady and perfectly secure.

A dainty little muff for severely cold weather is lined with ermine, in order to keep light gloves perfectly fresh in going from tea to tea. Women whose hands become occasionally moist know to their dismay how the colored satin lining of a muff is apt to tinge a glove, even when freshly put on. The ermine lined muff is an ideal glove protector. One of the prettiest opera wraps noticed at the Academy last week was a round cape of ermine, with flaring Medici collar. The wrap was lined with apple-green satin, heavily wadded. The general effect was most Intensely becoming to a rosy, dimpled face.

—Philadelphia Record.

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