There once was a time when fine restaurants had a dress code and women appreciated accompaniment with someone who demonstrated respectful etiquette. Ladies wore, and in most cases still do, appropriate dress to befit the occasion.

Today, however, gym shoes and baseball caps are the garb that many men wear because restaurants deem it allowable and women accept it. Along with baggy jeans and the unshaven look (sorry Brett Favre) I don't buy into it. Camping, fishing, hunting, or even hiking can be construed as macho acceptance but afterward, with someone special, time and dress should be devoted toward a more suitable memory.

William Mueller

Hoffman Estates