Mine do come over harsh but with some justification. I like it when others don't mince their words too.

It isn't the reality of 1954 I have an issue with but the Holy scripture persona many afford it. As a set of guidelines as you put it, it is neither fish nor fowl. It was an attempt to own the process which was, using your words, frankly ridiculous.

I may or may not agree or disagree with the detail, but that would be irrelevant. Its that some felt the need for it I and many others find extraordinary. To be fair to them, they didn't expect mainstream entertainment to embrace what was a small interest.

Anyway, most did have beards. The prevailing weather may however precluded fairisle sweaters.