LESSON VI. Cravate Sentimentale.

Plate C, fig. 15.

The name alone of this Cravat is sufficient to explain that it is not alike suitable to all faces.

You, then, whom nature has not gifted with skins of silk—eyes of fire—with complexions rivalling the rose and lily;—you, to whom she has denied pearly teeth and coral lips (a gift which in our opinion would be rather inconvenient)—you, in fact, whose faces do not possess that sympathetic charm, which in a moment, at a glance, spreads confusion o’er the senses, and disorder and trouble in the hearts of all who behold you—be careful how you expose to public gaze a head like that of a peruquier. We repeat—avoid it; and be assured that if your physiognomy does not inspire sensations of love and passion, and you should adopt the Cravate Sentimentale, you will be a fair butt for the shafts of ridicule, which (with no unsparing hand) will be showered upon you on all sides.

It is, therefore, for the juvenile only that it is at all adapted, and there should even be something boyish in the general appearance of the wearer. It may, then, be worn from the age of seventeen to twenty-seven; but after that age it cannot, with propriety, be patronized by even the most agreeable.

It must be allowed that this style is completely opposed to the Orientale and Collier de Cheval. It must be strongly starched, and fastened with a single rosette at the top, as near as possible to the chin.

It is more fashionable in the country than in town. Cambric is generally preferred.

See plate referred to.