From the Desk of Miss Chrissy
Do you cut a great shape ladies? This is something to keep in mind when you are preparing your outfit for the races… The Hat, The Shoulders, The Waist, the Hips, The Knees and yes… The Ankles must all be working together to create the best shape for you/your body… Did you know that the “perfect” hourglass figure is actually when the waist is 10 INCHES smaller that the bust and the hips… Its not about being 36-24-36 it could be any number (just like our age) as long as it is in proportion. If put together properly starting with the correct foundation garments (which incidentally help you to create that shape) then you are off to a great start…Apart from the outer beauty as addressed in your attire you must now work on your inner beauty… This needs to shine and is reflected in your charm, how you conduct yourself, and the etiquette of the day… lets now explores some do’s and don’ts so as to put your best foot forward and charm that inner racing circle…
Quotes from The British School of Conduct for Racing
“The racecourse creates its own ‘social micro-climate’, characterised by a highly unusual combination of relaxed inhibitions and exceptional good manners”
“The Code of Chivalry: Behaviour towards women, in all enclosures, follows an unwritten code of old-fashioned chivalry. At the races, all women are treated as ‘ladies’. This code does not prevent racegoers from engaging in mate-selection, courtship and seduction rituals, but it does ensure that females feel safe, protected and respected”
The Rules of Etiquette, The Art of Decorum and Never failing toobserve the Proprieties: Here are just a few of the important tips to abide by on race day:
- Do be well prepared, relaxed, elegant,graceful, feminine & gracious at all times
- Do always stand and don’t talk during the National Anthem.
- · Doalways talk politely & maintain eye contact with the person you are conversing with.
- Do include gel pads in shoes for tired feet – as wearing shoes on wrists is unacceptable.
- Do carry a handkerchief in your purse as well as a compact regular touch up of makeup throughout the day…. Dry flaky lipstick and a sweaty forehead is unattractive.
- Do carry a handy Perfume to stay fragrant throughout day
- Do carry double sided tape for strapless / low cut dresses, wayward straps / hats
- Do accept and offer a compliment with genuine grace – They say: A genuine compliment will suffuse the recipient with positive feelings, and oils the wheels of social intercourse
- Don’t swear or cuss or be overly loud
- Don’t drink you beverage from a can or bottle, rather hold your champagne or cocktail glass by stem not bowl
- Don’t sit or stand inappropriately so as your undergarments are on show
- Don’t get so intoxicated that you need lean on someone or something, and, below is not how a lady rests:
The Above is NOT how you rest BUT then if you are Hedy Lamar!… Well, she can just about get away with anything!
And, finally, if you’re somebody’s guest, remember your manners and don’t forget that all-important thank you letter afterwards.
In Conclusion:
Charm is something which cannot be taught, for it should come naturally. It is not about having a big personality that overshadows everybody else around it nor is it about being the funniest or smartest person. It embodies many qualities – warmth, wittiness, ability to converse with others, empathy, affablility, knowledge, carriage, poise. It is certainly not formulaic. I think the most important thing to remember is to be yourself at all times and don’t compromise that because you want to be like somebody else. Once you can be entirely comfortable within your own skin, everything else falls into place.
Til Then,
Kisses from the Mistress xx
