Australian Dress Code

Eton College was founded in 1440 by King Henry VI as "Kynge's College of Our Ladye of Eton besyde Windesore.” The clothing of the students of Eton have changed over the centuries, originally there was no uniform, the pupils wore the appropriate clothing of the day. The hospital and religious schools were supplied with cassocks by the clerics, for the poorer students.

It wasn’t until the early 19th century that Eton College introduced some form of uniformity; short black jackets for the younger students, and longer tail coats for the older. These short jackets became known as Eton suits, and became so popular that they were adopted by other colleges.

Originally, a stiff white collar was worn with the suit. After WW1, the stiff white collar was gradually replaced with a softer variety. Boris Johnson was the 20th Prime Minister of England to attend Eton, as were many dignitaries, including Princes William and Harry. Some jurisdictions of Masonic Lodges situated in the warmer climates of Australia, have adopted the white Eton jacket as their summer wear. In Queensland, the daylight lodges can wear them all year round, the night Lodges, between the months of September and April.

Recently, the Queensland Members have been authorised to wear the black Eton jackets to night meetings during the winter months. Except Grand Lodge Members who will still wear their tails to Installations during this period. The jackets remain the same as they have always been, with the broad wide shawl collar, except with the addition of an open pocket on the left breast to place jewels etc., and the lower seam comes to a point at the back. They are fastened in the front with Masonic jigger buttons.

Thanks to bro. Allan Williams PM Sec Continuity Lodge No.242 (UGLQ)

The dress code in Queensland is not the most straightforward, but with the weather, it must covers all possibilities. Hence it covers Installations, daylight Lodges, summer dress, winter dress, and attending in GL capacity.

In 242, we still have the master, wardens and installing masters wearing white shirt, waistcoat and tails. Without doubt, it is smart and I would argue to maintain these standards. Under the problems of last year, many brethren may find this dress code and a return to older traditions is a very welcome sight.

Regalia of Bro. Sir Alf Ramsay, footballer and manager of England during some famous victory……, was initiated into Waltham Abbey Lodge No. 2750 in Essex on 5th October 1953. His regalia is on display at Chingford Masonic Hall.