We were delighted to welcome Gillian Stapleton once again from 'The History Wardrobe'. Those of you who came to Howarth last year will remember the splendid presentation Gillian gave us regarding 'The Well-Dressed Governess'.

This time we went further back in time, to the seventeenth century and the Restoration Period, for a delightful glimpse into menswear during the reignof Charles II. Pepys himself wrote, 'I must go handsomely, whatever it costs me...' so we were promised an intriguing event showing us lavish garments and accessories together with lively, appropriate anecdotes.Due to its top quality and special design,

Gillian was joined by her husband, Dr Ian Stapleton; they wrote, 'Fashion survives both plague and fire! We consign Cromwell's sober clothes to oblivion and transform a modest modern gentleman into a fantastical fop, using periwig, perfume and Pepys...'

As Christmas approached there was so much happening in York and so many Eateries close by, we thought it better to leave the afternoon choice up to you, while we gave a nod to the festivities ourselves with suitable cake!