Dear "Miss One Leg," - I noticed your letter to the Editor asking me to comment on your new outfit. I am afraid that a velvet jacket "to the hips" will twist and "ruck up" owing to the use of your crutch. I suggest that it finishes just above the hip-bone which is just long enough for fashion, isn't it? Nor do I agree that your velvet skirt should be "made tight." A tight skirt always draws attention to the missing limb and "rucks up" and creases in the most alarming fashion, when you sit down, completely destroying the smart effect; for velvet, above all other fabrics will not stand rough treatment.
Mind you, I agree with your choice of material - it is most flattering - and I know velvet is a great favourite with the male sex. Why not try a crushed mulberry shade?
I suggest that you have of the latest "swing" skirts instead of a tight slit skirt. The fullness of a swing skirt stops it from creasing or rucking up. After all a narrow slit skirt for a one-legged girl is not exactly a happy choice, is it? Even girls with the full complement of legs look beastly in them unless their legs are adorably streamlined and perfect, and we lame girls must strive to conceal our deficiencies, mustn't we? Moreover, black patent Court shoes do not go well with velvet suits as velvet has a "matt" finish, and patent is ultra shiny, so the harmony of the costume is at once destroyed. I think that a black suede Court shoe (which you can get with as high a heel as you like) will look better with velvet.
Patent shoes should only be worn with tailor made costumes, shiny surfaced fabrics, or smart afternoon frocks not made in velvet.
Suede, on the other hand will go with almost anything, and if you want a very flattering shoe for your one whole leg, why not visiting the Regent Shoe Stores? You will find their address on another page of this issue. Their assistant is most understanding about your personal problems, and will make your problem his and will send you out with the most flattering and suitable shoe for your needs. I know this, because several of my friends go there, and wouldn't patronise another shop.
I like your idea of the "slim ebony crutch," and when I next write an illustrated article I will include a sketch of your velvet outfit in it for your guidance. As for "Marina's" crutch not being under her arm in my last sketch, that was just "artistic license" so that the full effect of the fashion drawing could be obtained.
Thank you for all the nice things you have said about my article and sketches. Believe me I am most grateful.
Yours truly,
Joan Roper.