DEAR MISS MANNERS: I live in a golf course country club in Naples, Fla. We often go to the restaurant for lunch after a round of golf. I am a lady and I am required to take off my hat in the restaurant. I thought this rule applied only to men. Otherwise, how do we justify hats in church and other formal affairs?
We play golf in other clubs in Naples. I have never been asked to remove my hat in their restaurants. Please advise.
GENTLE READER: It is not in your interest as a golfer to insist on traditional gender roles in or near the golf course. One of them was that ladies allow gentlemen to play through, as the gentlemen's time was considered more valuable.
Should you attend a luncheon at the clubhouse wearing a dress and a whimsical hat, Miss Manners will defend your right to keep it on as you may in church and at formal events. Unisex sports caps cannot lay claim to ladylike rules.
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