G'day all,

over my ~40 years of involvement in the Australian Folk Revival, I have always believed in the value of a bit of dress sense. As I perform in a colonial (19th century for us) tradition I prefer a few hints of older, sensible bush (country) styles ... light moleskin trousers, fairly basic coloured shirts, contrasting waistcoat, Akubra hat.

For formal occasions (like the colonial balls we run 2 or 3 times a year and, for which I often play with The Heritage Ensemble) it is either cleaner, 'flasher' versions of the above (in the style of the 19th century "Flash Coves" ... young bloods who could afford flashy gear) or ... reluctantly ... formal wear, which hasn't changed much in 150 years.

For years I have fought against the "arse-out-of-the dirty-jeans" contingent. In running events, and in advising musicians booked by my wife's Agency, I suggest that they are not dressed for the stage if the client's barkeeper expects them to pay for their drinks!

regards,

Bob Bolton