Ladies Wear

A former coworker recently invited me and a few other female coworkers to dinner at a private club. Several times before the actual date of the event she sent us email reminders detailing the need to ‘don ladies wear’ and ‘BYOB.’

Being that I would be coming straight from work, I figured my business attire would suffice. I arrived at this posh venue to find a mix of women and men dining at several tables  and engaged in lively conversation. Although this club started nearly 100 years as a ‘women only’ establishment – to prove their point to the ‘men only’ establishment down the street – they do allow men to visit so long as they are with a female member of the club. The rules of membership have not changed since the inception; one may not apply, rather, must be nominated to join.

One of the most recent nominees – my hostess – was seated at a table, patiently waiting my arrival, donning a black dress, heels, a pearl necklace and a diamond bracelet. “Look at you! Love the pearls – I usually only wear those for interviews and book club,” I told her. “Thank you. I’ll take your coat and, heads up, no cell phones in the dining room. They are a no-no,” she informed me then handed my coat to one of the club staff.

I put my phone in my purse, pulled out my bottle of wine, and got ready to dine.

The dinner was lovely and when it ended the chef joined us in the dining room where we applauded her and then gave personal thanks as she made her way to each table.  As other guests started clearing out, our hostess told us, “You’ve gotta see the bathrooms. Let’s go upstairs.”

As we made our way to the loos, we passed the Bridge room(s), the lecture room and the tea room. “They have high tea daily,”our hostess advised and added, “Let’s come back for high tea.” I’d like that and, just like tonight, I’ll BYOB. This time, however, it will most likely be a flask – I’m posh like that.