Dress Standards
I think that some of the people posting agree that it is not an issue of rules, but a matter of personal standards.
As a member of the University, I frequently attend functions here at Cambridge - both college and University shindigs. Most people understand what is required of a particular function. Those attending formal hall (a 'dining in') wear academic gowns and black tie. Similarly, those attending 'at homes' in the Senior Combination Room or Masters' lodge know to wear a lounge suit. Chapel, such as Evensong and Compline, also sees students and staff to dress in a smart and tidy manner, without a formal 'dress code'.
The similarlities between College and Mess life are striking and apart from the standards required by the Praelector for Graduation (eg checking sock colour) dress standards are largely up to the individual. Yes, most students wear denim during the week, but enjoy dressing up when circumstances would dictate. Perhap Mess committees should rely on the common sense of its members, being cognisant that the Mess is also the home for a lot of people. Officers and WO& SNCOs know how to dress for function and when there are visitors. Isn't that enough without structuring pedantic mess rules that no-one reads?
Last edited by Cambridge Crash; 24th Mar 2005 at 08:42.