Page:A Desk Book on the Etiquette of Social Stationary.djvu/15

 Envelopes vary in size and shape and follow no strict rule. A new design is large and almost square, and there are matching sizes for the smaller sheets.

The oblong envelope is, however, considered more generally correct, although a square one in medium size is always in good taste.

The thin-lining envelope of contrasting or darker tone is a late fancy. This idea originated for foreign mail and the transparent envelope, but has been taken up generally by stationers with extremely pleasing results.

Many of these linings are quite distinct from the envelope proper, closing separately with a narrow fold. The contents are thus doubly secure, and the writing concealed.

Violet is a favorite tone for the lining envelopes, combining well with the palest shades of gray or champagne. Two tones of blue are also good, and a russet lining with an ecru paper is most attractive.

In decoration, one may also choose from many modish forms. For instance, the tiny