The Australian Club in Sydney, a prestigious private members-only establishment, has recently made headlines by banning sockettes, a type of low-rise ankle sock, from its premises. This decision, reported by the Australian Financial Review, has sparked a debate about whether the club is upholding Victorian-era modesty or engaging in fashion policing.
As per the club’s updated dress code, announced by the club secretary, members must wear socks that cover above the ankle, with jackets being “tailored.” This move has raised eyebrows, particularly in an era where fashion norms are increasingly relaxed. The club’s stringent dress requirements seem to echo a bygone era, yet they remain firmly in place.
The Historical Context of the Australian Club
Established in 1838, the Australian Club is the oldest gentlemen’s club in the southern hemisphere. Situated at 165 Macquarie Street, it offers “unparalleled views” of the Botanic Gardens and north shore. The club is part of a network of elite clubs worldwide, including the Melbourne Club and Athenaeum Club.
Despite its deep historical roots, the club has faced criticism for its continued exclusion of women. In 2021, a proposal to allow female members was rejected by 62% of its members, including notable figures such as former Prime Ministers John Howard and Malcolm Turnbull. The decision was controversial, with some members expressing concern that the club’s “atmosphere” could be “irreparably damaged.”
Dress Code and Fashion Debates
The club’s dress code has always been stringent. Members and their male guests are required to wear a jacket and tie, although ties are optional on the “relaxed” third floor. Women can wear a dress, skirt, or tailored trousers with a jacket. Denim and sports shoes are strictly prohibited, maintaining the club’s formal aesthetic.
The ban on sockettes has puzzled many, as these socks are usually hidden from view. However, the club’s emphasis on traditional attire suggests a desire to maintain a certain image. The decision has been interpreted by some as a nod to modern fashion trends, aligning with the club’s claim of blending “tradition and modernity.”
Fashion or Function: The Debate Continues
While some may view the ban as an overreach, others argue that sockettes are simply unfashionable. Often referred to as “millennial socks,” they are seen as a fashion faux pas among younger generations. The club, with a median member age above 60, appears to be aligning itself with contemporary fashion trends, despite its historical roots.
“Get with the times, I say, and pull up your socks,” remarked a club member, echoing the sentiment of embracing modernity.
Implications and Future Outlook
The Australian Club’s decision to ban sockettes highlights the ongoing tension between tradition and modernity in elite social circles. As societal norms continue to evolve, institutions like the Australian Club face pressure to adapt while preserving their historical identity.
Whether this move will influence other clubs with similar dress codes remains to be seen. For now, the Australian Club stands firm in its sartorial standards, a testament to its enduring legacy and its members’ commitment to maintaining a certain decorum.
As the debate continues, the club’s stance on fashion and tradition will likely remain a topic of interest, reflecting broader societal shifts and the ever-changing landscape of fashion norms.
