PN and DF, excellent moves! As once said by an aide to staish - I wouldn't impose that rule sir, they will quickly find a way to take the p...s !!
That was of course the point, that all enjoyed - of course we will acknowledge the mess rule, but beware of the law of unintended consequences!
White mess kit jacket, starch etc - recall one occasion on a secret med base when mine was delivered to the front door of the mess to meet us driving in from hirings to the dining in night- borrowed shoulder boards in hand, total relief to see the chap there on the steps, slightly abated when found that said jacket was still wet from the laundry - nothing a few brandy sours couldnt deal with!