Cotton garments are often woven loosely and so treated in manufacture that they absorb easily. Silk is very pleasing but costly. Silk and wool combined are also excellent, but expensive. The great argument for wool or for wool and cotton is that evaporation is slow unless moisture and draught are present, and so the bodily temperature is not apt to be reduced so unduly as through cotton or linen; in other words, one is not so apt to take cold. Union suits form an even layer over the whole body and are considered more hygienic than the double layer of vest and drawers at the abdomen. EXERCISES AND PROBLEMS 1. What underwear do you think is the best kind for you to wear considering your age, work, climate, health? 2. Write a composition of two hundred words about the best kind of corsets to wear, and why. 3. What important things will you consider the next time you buy a pair of shoes? REVIEW PROBLEMS I. Begin to keep your clothing budget. Ask mother to permit you to plan it. Do not stop at the end of the year; keep on for at least four years. II. In what ways are you definitely planning each day to keep well? How do clothes help? III. What facts learned at school can you give mother about wool, which will help in buying your new winter coat. IV. Plan a school exhibit of all the work done during the year. Your teacher will make suggestions about the refreshments and invitations as well as plans for mounting the work. [Illustration] CHAPTER VI CHOOSING AND WEARING CLOTHES