You Paid For It, And You Can Still See It. As Long As You're Not Wearing Jeans....

[DeSwiss]

Signs Around White House List Dress Code Rules

Jul 26, 2007 8:50 am US/Pacific

(CBS) WASHINGTON New signs are posted around the White House indicating a new strict enforcement of the dress code, the Washington Post reported Thursday. The code applies to all visitors and staff members, including tourists.

Some tourists are finding the strict clothing restrictions at the White House un-American.

The forbidden items include jeans, sneakers, mini-skirts, t-shirts, tank tops and absolutely no flip flops.

The motivation for the clothing crack-down comes from the Bush Administration who think some of those who work there and those who visit just don't dress appropriately.

http://cbs5.com/watercooler/watercooler_story_207115608.html

*** - Well, I don't think the Bushit dresses appropriately either. Of course I realize that its hard to find a straight-jacket for formal evening wear.....

[Viva_La_Revolution]

1. Why does he hate us for our freedom to wear flip-flops?

:mad:

[DeSwiss]

26. He hates flip flops....

...the only one who wasn't one is McLame. I hear he's raising funds in Iowa or something....

[fed-up]

70. slight mistake in new posted dress code-now allowing BROWNSHIRTS (and brown noses) only nt

[cynatnite]

2. Why tourists?

I can understand a dress code for those who work there and maybe for visitors who are meeting with those who work there...but tourists?

:wtf:

[Kingshakabobo]

5. No shorts? That makes no sense....Especially in the D.C. heat.

I thought WE were the elitists?

Not to mention our some of the outfits our cowboy pimp president likes to wear.

[ThomCat]

47. It's funny how the pundits ignore all the elitist shit Bush

and the republicans pull. Only Democrats can be smeared as elitist.
x(

[REACTIVATED IN CT]

116. One must dress appropriately when one visits the monarch n/t

[kimmylavin]

168. Yes.

When will they start referring to Mr. Bush as "the Presence", as they do with the Queen of England?

[MisterP]

366. "the Absence," you mean

[Corgigal]

3. The White House is our house, asshole

move your shit out.

[BlooInBloo]

4. I.e. Rich people only at the people's house.

[wildhorses]

6. khakis with alligators on the pockets shirts

:eyes:

[sandnsea]

7. Somebody show up in a burqua

and a chastity belt. Please please pretty please.

No wait, a diaper, definitely a diaper!!

[tblue]

18. LOL! Oh they'd love that. Be careful what you ask for, ya know? Thanks for the chuckle.

[Not_Giving_Up]

8. Is there a rule about cowboy boots with the Presidential Seal on them?

Those should be banned for sure!

[Canuckistanian]

9. What about codpieces?

I hear they're de rigeur for all naval photo ops now.

[WCGreen]

12. This whole thing sounds fishy to me...

It's all about not letting Liberals into the White House...

Can you picture Rove in Shorts and a T-Shirt...

That pasty assed mother fucker would probabaly burst into flames if he walked outside not wearing a suit...

[Canuckistanian]

14. No Birkenstocks, lattes or tie-dyed apparel allowed...

And all love beads will be checked at the door.

Yeah, Rove reminds me of the "fat German businessmen pretending to be acrobats and forming pyramids and frightening the children" of Python fame.

[pnwmom]

10. So children will only be allowed in if they buy special shoes?

Both of my sons went through years where they only owned sneakers. What about the kids that can't afford to buy special shoes for a one time visit?

[Ron Green]

11. I don't have a problem with it. I prefer not to look at bare midriffs and butt-cracks

in our national public buildings.

[WCGreen]

13. But but you'll miss all them prudy tramp taggs....

[cynatnite]

15. Well, I don't care to look at butt-cracks anywhere n/t

[Hissyspit]

31. Damn commoners!

Bringing their plague into our safehouses.

[theHandpuppet]

32. Flip-Flops simply aren't proper to wear in some situations

Sorry folks, but that's the way I feel. Showing some modicum of respect for others isn't elitism, it's called MANNERS.

[tbyg52]

51. I agree, but

there's a difference between my thinking they're tacky and Bu$h saying they can't come in.

[frogcycle]

57. Would you object to them if they were visiting the Lincoln Memorial? The Washington Monument?

The VN Wall?

The WH tour is part of the tourist attractions. People line up outside and walk through roped-off areas in a queue, with tour guides doing a voiceover.

I went on a "VIP" tour -- my uncle met a SS agent somewhere and scored tickets. We got to go to a couple of areas the queue does not. We dressed for that - not suits or anything, but what today would be called "business casual." I think that was appropriate. Rumor had it that Kennedy had been known to walk past some of the places we would be, and wave at people (he didn't).

The people in the queue are heading next to the Smithsonian, or the Jefferson Memorial, or the National Zoo, for cripes sakes. They are NOT sitting down in the Oval Office to chat.

[theHandpuppet]

72. Another person taken to rewriting my posts

There are some situations where the wearing of flip-flops is direspectful and inapproriate. Would you wear flip-flops and a tank top to a formal wedding? A bikini to a funeral? Use common sense. Flip flops at Disneyworld -- fine and dandy. Flip-flops to the White House, I'm sorry, but spend a couple of bucks on real clothes and a book of manners.

[NMDemDist2]

80. ok let's think this through shall we?? Let's say I save my $$ for a trip to DC

I want to take in all the sights, do the tourist stuff during my stay. maybe i'm bringing my 10 year old with me,

I want to visit the Smithsonian, the WH, the Lincoln and Washington memorials

It's August

so you're insisting I wear pants and shoes while I walk miles and miles in muggy heat to see the sights? you're insisting my 10 year old do the same? I can't wear a nice pair of walking shorts and tennis shoes for those mentioned miles??

screw that, it's MY government, it's MY house. I should be able to visit it as long as my attire isn't illegally revealing

this rule is fucked up IMO

[Occulus]

83. just put him on ignore

It's obvious you're not going to get anywhere. People who advocate dress codes never sway. They are as inflexible on looks and appearance as a brick wall.

That they ascribe so much importance to what is on the outside is telling of their characters in and of itself.

[NMDemDist2]

86. your point is well taken

but I rarely use the ignore function.

and I just wanted to get my $0.02 in. My hubby wants to visit DC and I'm sure we'll be wearing jeans or shorts and tennies for most of the stay

:shrug:

[Occulus]

90. I used to not use it

until I realized that there are an awful lot of people here these days who post only to be as obtuse about stupid things as possible. I'm surprised we haven't seen the "tennis subthread" phenomenon yet- where one obtuse poster goes around and around with one reasonable poster, occasionally getting the subthread deleted or the thread itself locked.

It's really a waste of time to read such exchanges, except to learn who to put on ignore, because the people who do that are doing it only to waste the time of "legitimate" posters' discussions. Frankly, it's a subtle member of the DOS attack family.

For everyone who thinks a t-shirt and jeans are unacceptable attire for a tour of the White House: please go fuck yourselves for a long, long time, so you get as much pleasure out of it as possible.

"My hubby wants to visit DC and I'm sure we'll be wearing jeans or shorts and tennies for most of the stay."

You and just about everyone else. I'd be laughing at this dress code, if I didn't feel just a little sick instead.

[frogcycle]

111. great comments

i liken them to the kid in the back of the classroom throwing spitwads at the substitute teacher, then grinning like an idiot when everyone looks at him

[OwnedByFerrets]

358. Good Post!

[theHandpuppet]

151. Yeah, that's the ticket

Anyone who might expect the least amount of respect or manners from folks is obviously just a bigoted, anal-retentive jerk to be put on ignore.

And y'all have the nerve to call me judgmental. That would be almost laughable if it weren't so sad.

[theHandpuppet]

145. You're still rewriting my post

We're talking about the White House, not a trip to the mall or even the Smithsonian. Why don't you just toss in Redskin Park while you're ever-expanding the parameters here? Or shall we stick to the topic?

[NMDemDist2]

183. "still rewriting" ?? I simply made a comment of how I am liable to dress

when visiting the tourist attractions of a city in the afternoon of an August day.

I really don't see spending the whole day (or even half a day) at the WH for a 30 minute tour. I certainly wouldn't appreciate being turned away because I'm wearing shorts and sneakers.

I am not talking a State Dinner or a visit to the Oval Office here, I'm talking the public areas of the WH which are (by designation) for the *public*

Please explain to me why the WH is deserving of such reverence? Is it not simply another Government office building that happens to have a residence attached? What makes it so incredibly *better* than the Smithsonian or any number of other National Landmarks?

If I really wanted to be in awe of something of our Government, I'd be more likely to give that respect to the National Archives Rotunda where the original Declaration of Independence is on display for the unwashed masses to view.

:hi:

[theHandpuppet]

198. Well then it's all a matter of your convenience

And sometimes showing basic manners and respect can be quite inconvenient because it's not about self but selflessness.

Sorry, but IMHO the comfy clothes people wear for the water slide at Six Flags wouldn't be the clothes I'd wear to tour the Lincoln Bedroom, which is deserving of a bit more respect and dignity than that we'd afford a carnival ride. I'm afraid we'll have to agree to disagree on this issue.

[NMDemDist2]

222. the water slide at 6 Flags?

a bathing suit? now I'd agree that is not appropriate attire for a public street in most cases.

so you are saying because I chose to dress as a tourist in a tourist town while visiting tourist attractions I am selfish and have no manners? That seems to be quite a stretch as well as somewhat rude and condescending since we are speaking of manners.

I guess I'm still not understanding your reasoning that a room of furniture in a government facility is due reverence. It certainly is historical and interesting but I don't bow to much in the way of material things and if you chose to do so, that is certainly your right.

However I'd like to point out that your rights end when they infringe on my pursuit of life, liberty and happiness. To expect tourists to dress and act like anything else while visiting a tourist attraction is somewhat counter intuitive it seems to me.

I would rather have a child in shorts and tennis shoes being exposed to the historical places and concepts any day than enforce an arbitrary 'respect' out of some misguided idea of what is 'correct' behavior.

Seems to me we should encourage our citizens in every way possible to be educated and informed on the things that made this country great.

The Lincoln Bedroom has significance only because, IMHO, Lincoln led the country away from judging people's worth based on outward appearances (in his case, skin color) so I am confused why the outward appearance of one's clothing should have any significance when viewing and learning about the basic tenets of equality and liberty.

All too often I fear we are so busy maintaining the letter of a concept while losing the spirit of what that concept was trying to teach and to give us.

Your mileage may vary :shrug:

[NMDemDist2]

247. seems I am mistaken. onenote posts that there are no longer public tours available

under the circumstances that I would have to pre arrange a tour through my Congressional contingent, I may be more inclined to dress differently.

But I bet Hubby would still want to wear his SAS shoes :shrug:

[bbgrunt]

99. well, I wear sneakers everywhere including my job. I would be in a wheelchair otherwise.

[Name removed]

125. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[theHandpuppet]

142. That's unfortunate

Because I've bought some pretty nice clothes myself at Goodwill and the Salvation Army.

Sorry, but I'm not wearing flip-flops to take a tour of the Linclon Bedroom. The very fact that so many of you would find that so "stifling" is sad, IMHO.

[bread_and_roses]

353. No one cares what you wear. Wear what YOU like. Let others do the same - why should you care

what's on my feet? Why should that tinpot little dicatator in the WH care if people wear sneakers or even "flip flops?" So what? If you want to sweat in a suit and tie it's no matter to me - if that's what makes you feel good, go for it. But why on earth should YOUR sensibilities control what I wear?

It's just more of Little Boots (thanks always to the poster who came up with that one, it's great, I steal it all the time) Imperial Presidency.

The WH is the people's house, no? As long as people are decent, what matter?

[frogcycle]

356. tour of the Lincoln Bedroom????

not in your lifetime!

you obviously know nothing about the tourist visits to the White House. These are not "guests" - they are tourists with their kids schlepping from one 'attraction' to another in steamy Washington. You accuse people of rewriting your posts when in fact they are setting you straight.
There is a line every morning that extends 'round the block; people are let in in groups, and they file through a tiny bit of the East Wing cordoned off by ropes. Sometimes they wait in the sun for an hour or more. Then they go to the National Zoo to see the Pandas and do the same thing.

OF COURSE if one were visiting as an invited guest one could be expected to exercise some decorum.

[mondo joe]

131. Even if it's disrespectful, don't people have the right to be disrespectful?

You don't mind Bushco limiting free expression?

[theHandpuppet]

144. This is not about BushCo.

This is about not taking a tour of the Lincoln Bedroom in a sweaty tank top and flip flops. It's about respect for that house, not for the man who illegally occupies it.

[mondo joe]

148. Even if, for the sake of argument, we assume these clothes are disrespectful - do

Americans have the right to be disrespectful or not in public areas?

[theHandpuppet]

152. Sure

A person has a right to squat next to you in a public restaurant in a sweaty tank top with their hairy armpits hanging out and belching like a gassy cow, too. Anything goes these days. Manners and respect are for anal-retentive jerks like me. But then I was taught that manners are intended show respect for others -- it was about THEIR level of comfort, not MINE.

[mondo joe]

154. Restaurants are not publically owned and have the right to set dress codes.

The White House is owned by the public - it's the last place free expression should be arbitrarily forbidden.

[theHandpuppet]

156. So why not just a dirty pair of boxers?

Makes it so much easier to have a good scratch while you're touring the Lincoln Bedroom.

[mondo joe]

185. Why not a nice strawman like the one you posted?

?

[theHandpuppet]

191. Nope, not a strawman at all

Just who gets to write the rules and decide when a boundary has been crossed? If I want to show up in my underwear because its "MY HOUSE" who gets to say I'm crossing the line? Obviously what I consider disrespectful doesn't meet with your approval, so who gets to set the rules? You? And your rules would be less arbitrary than anyone else's? Let us know how this works.

[mondo joe]

193. I don't think it's necessary to set any such rule.

I think the 1 in 10million person who wants to wear dirty boxers can do it and the norms will survive just fine.

My question remains: do you think people have the RIGHT to dress disrespectfully in the White House?

[Name removed]

202. Deleted sub-thread

Sub-thread removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[theHandpuppet]

208. Yes, they do have the right

They have the right to be disrespectful and ill-mannered. They have the right to put their own convenience and comfort above everyone else's. If someone wants to tour the Lincoln bedroom in their underwear or buck naked I guess they have that right, too. In the end, there simply are no limits because any restrictions whatsoever could be deemed by someone else to be a set of arbitrary rules which conflict with their personal freedom of expression.

[mondo joe]

209. Very good. Now since you agree that people have the right, we can only conclude it is wrong

for the WH to prohibit that expression.

Thank you.

[theHandpuppet]

212. Probably

But that was never my argument anyway, was it.

[mondo joe]

216. I don't know if it was your argument - that's why I was clarifying.

I'm gratified to know that you at least support the right of citizens to be disrespectful.

[LanternWaste]

350. Don't a lot of public institutions have a dress-code?

Don't a lot of public institutions have a dress-code?

[nadine_mn]

307. oh god now I can't sweat even

sweaty tank top - thats not on the no-no list - just tank. What if I am in a sweaty dress shirt? crap I have been to DC - its hotter than my mother-in-law's armpit, what if I sweat? Eep what if my sweat drips on the Lincoln bedroom furniture. What about kulats - can I wear them? or capris? OOh what about Crocs for shoes - those are soooooo much classier. Maybe we can impeach him for violating his dresscode

[Celebration]

320. see my post above

I have a sore toe and had to buy flip flops to go to a wedding. They are the only thing that don't hurt my toe. They are very dressy, like dressy sandals. They will look fine and I am not embarrassed to wear them. You really need to get thee to a shoe store and check out ALL the flip flop styles.

[RedCappedBandit]

64. Jeans? T-Shirt?

SNEAKERS?
You actually have a problem with sneakers?

[theHandpuppet]

71. Read my post

Don't make them up for me.

[RedCappedBandit]

75. The article wasn't only adressing flip-flops,

it does come off as elitism when they ban the use of *sneakers*

[theHandpuppet]

155. But you were adressing MY post

And I was remarking on flip-flops, nothing more. As long as a person's sneakers and jeans are clean and neat I personally wouldn't see that as a problem.

[RedCappedBandit]

164. Which is why I inquired about the other articles on the list. N.T

[Occulus]

78. You too.

I will not permit my eyeballs to read Authoritarian posts.

Welcome to my ignore list.

[proud2BlibKansan]

101. And there's this other thing called

MIND YOUR OWN DAMN BUSINESS.

If you don't like what I wear, you don't have to invite me to a private event you host. But this is the White House, which belongs to the PEOPLE.

[treestar]

123. It's disrespectful to wear flip-flops?

Where did that rule come from?

Personally, I find it disrespectful when people wear tassled loafers.

[cgrindley]

196. Extremely so

the White House is NOT the beach.

[mudesi]

223. No, it's not.

Rather, it's supposedly the symbol of freedom and democracy, where anyone, regardless of how they express themselves or what their income is, can visit.

Apparently, the fascists are winning. It's disenheartening to see posts like this.

[mondo joe]

227. But you are arguing with someone who believes citizens do not have the right to show disrespect

for the government.

Maybe not even for anyone.

[Celebration]

324. Another person who hasn't checked out flip flop styles lately

They are not just for the beach!!

[Donnachaidh]

327. I wouldn't class them as flip-flops

those are sandals. BIG difference.

[Celebration]

334. look again

Those are FLIP FLOPS--just fancy ones. I wear these things all the time. Viva flip flops.

[Donnachaidh]

363. you say tomato - I say tom AH to

Flip flops are those rubber shoes found at the dollar store. The kind you wear at the beach, or when you're camping.

What you've shown are SANDALS.

[Exiled in America]

124. What do fucking flip flops have to do with "manners?"

[Cha]

141. I wear "slippers" to work..that's

what they call "flip flops" in Hawaii and I got use to them when I lived there..I love them. You can't get Locals out of them and why would you try? Guess they don't want any visitors from our 50th State. :)

They can take their little chimphouse tour and stuff it up their collective fascistass.

[VTMechEngr]

126. It's not manners

It's snobby Elitism.

[mudesi]

221. And if I can't AFFORD fancy shoes?

I guess those gosh darn poor people are out of luck again.

Goodbye, America. Let us hope that one day you become a free country again.

[Richard Steele]

267. Apparently, then, you should hide yourself so the sight of you doesn't offend the "decent" folk.

Some of the classist douchebaggery on this thread is just astounding.

[hfojvt]

253. it is elitism though

when you FORCE others to show you respect or follow YOUR code of manners.

[Celebration]

319. Wait one second!!

You are so waaaay behind times. I have a sore toe so I had to go out and buy a bunch of flip flops. There are now flip flops appropriate for wedding attire. They are just way dressier than sandals. I see no difference between sandals and flip flops. We are not talking beachwear here.

[HiFructosePronSyrup]

364. I agree with you completely.

If people are going to tour our great nations capitol, in the summer, making many stops along the way, visiting parks, walking long distances, crowding in buses, standing in line in the sun, etc. then they should at least have the decency, of course, to wear their best searsucker suit.

Women, naturally, should simply stay home.

[NoPasaran]

48. That comment set off a horrifying chain of associations for me!

Butt-cracks ===> Plumbers ===> White House Plumbers ===> G. Gorden Liddy's butt-crack
:puke:

[merh]

50. But the no blue jeans, t-shirts and sneakers is ridiculous

Some folks are wardrobe challenged and this is about the best they have.

No body parts or toe cleavege is displayed when wearing most t-shirts, jeans and sneakers.

It is friggin silly, if they couldn't keep the employees from dressing inappropriately, that's on them, but visitors ands tourists, it's just ridiculous.

[Ron Green]

203. I agree that the "jeans and sneakers" rule is too harsh.

But Wow, this little sub-thread brought out some really authoritarian anti-authoritarianists, didn't it?

I visited DC last month for the first time in almost 40 years, went downtown on the Metro, so had to take everything with me and it was HOT! I wore lightweight slacks, a short sleeve shirt with a collar, and loafers. I was as comfortable as I would have been in shorts and athletic shoes. About half the tourists I saw were similarly dressed, and about half seemed to be showing either skin or an advertisement.

I do prefer not to see the advertising OR the skin in the national monuments, but of course that's just my preference.

[merh]

238. I prefer the no skin, cracks, etc

And personally, I rarely wear t-shirts (they aren't comfortable to me) and I rarely wear free advertisement for others. I have never understood why I have to pay a company $70 to a company to wear their advertisement. If they want me wearing it, give it to me and then I'll think about it.

[RedCappedBandit]

65. And how exactly do jeans and sneakers

force you to look at bare midriffs and butt-cracks?

[Occulus]

77. I prefer not to have Authoritarians deciding what I can wear where

Welcome to my ignore list. Reason: Authoritarianism.

[treestar]

119. Your preferences are meaningless in this issue

It belongs to all of us, including those of us who don't dress up to your standards.

[Exiled in America]

121. That's fucking tough for you.

I don't really give a shit what you'd "prefer" to look at.

All this does is make it harder for poor people - like myself - to have access THEIR OWN BUILDINGS AND GOVERNMENT.

It's nothing but elitism.

[Celebration]

318. then how about this rule?

No bare midriffs and butt-cracks!

How about the flip flops and sneakers?

[Donnachaidh]

325. especially if those bare midriffs and buttcracks are hanging out

and over various areas of the clothing. :eyes:

[Raine]

16. Actually I wished people would dress better

so many people look like bums or skanks, I often wonder if they feel like anything is worth looking better for. It's too bad it has to be made a rule though, it should be something that people want to do.

[Hissyspit]

30. It doesn't have to be made a rule. n/t

[cgrindley]

43. Sure it does

manners and decorum have sunk to such a miserably low state that people actually have to be told what is appropriate and inappropriate behavior. It's a shame, but it's completely necessary.

[RedCappedBandit]

67. Why?

What exactly is wrong with wearing jeans?

[cgrindley]

95. It's sloppy

I wear jeans to work. But I'm not about to wear them to visit the Whitehouse. I think people should show a little respect to the great men who have lived there.

[mondo joe]

114. Democracy is sloppy too.

There's nothing inherently less respectful about jeans than a business suit.

[VTMechEngr]

129. How are jeans sloppy?

[cgrindley]

180. Why do you have to ask?

are people really that clueless? are you all just pretending to be oblivious?

[VTMechEngr]

215. I really want you to explain it.

Seriously. Enlighten me on how Jeans are sloppy.

[Richard Steele]

270. Down below in #206, he claims all -HIS- jeans cost over $150 a pair.

That's a lot of cash for "sloppy". Or it WOULD be,
if I believed a word of it.

[mondo joe]

271. Hey, the fake package and buttock lifts are not cheap.

Just saying. :-)

[cgrindley]

282. I wear Paper Denim Cloth and Earnest Sewn jeans

both made in the USA, so I know my jeans aren't made in south east Asia by slave labor, prisoners, or children. I wear them with casual dress shirts and casual dress shoes.

[mondo joe]

285. What country are your old navy shorts made in?

?

[cgrindley]

293. I imagine that they are made by children in some hellhole

but I only wear them at home, so I can't really justify spending real money to purchase high quality made in America stuff. I'm not made of money.

[mondo joe]

303. That's appropriate to the hellhole of your tortured reasoning.

:-)

[Richard Steele]

294. Sure you do. Because you're just so damn socially conscious.

[me b zola]

347. "Made in the USA"

And it very well may be that what you have purchased as being "made in the USA" was made in the Mariana Islands from slave labor.

But where ever & however your clothes were made, they cannot conceal the elitist snobbery of the person wearing them.

[cgrindley]

349. that's irrational

you are calling me an elistic snob because I think that wearing jeans and flipflops to the White House is inappropriate? that's silly.

[Odin2005]

281. Gee, maybe most people don't agree with your pretentious elitist snobbery.

Your notions are based on elitist-defined social mores made to denigrate working class people.

[cgrindley]

288. Nonsense

what working class job involves wearing shorts, flipflops and a t-shirt that says "I'm with stupid".

[Richard Steele]

296. Nice. Just keep showing how you aren't a classist douchebag. I think it's working.

NOT

[VTMechEngr]

313. You live in Western CT don't you?

It shows.

[RedCappedBandit]

166. How exactly are jeans sloppy?

What would you prefer people wore? Why can't they wear shorts, especially in the middle of the summer? Why exactly do people have to dress in a manner which exists only to show off wealth in order to exhibit respect?

[VTMechEngr]

172. We are on the same page. n/t

[Odin2005]

283. The elitists will denigrate any clothing cheap enough to be worn by working class people.

Starting in the early 20th century the upper-middle class developed a culture of snobbery in order to denigrate the masses they thought were destroying civilization.

[Feron]

173. Give me a break..

Jeans can be casual dressy with the right top and shoes.

It's all about snobbery and not about appropriate dress. I can understand rules against cootchie cutters, pants that sag halfway down your bottom, and t-shirts that show off your midriff.

[mondo joe]

81. What a strangely undemocratic notion to apply to the White House, of all places. NT

[Occulus]

85. That would be why I now have them on ignore

I love threads like this. It makes DU a more rational place, for me, because I get to see all the irrational and authoritarian people exposed.

Threads like this one usually grow my ignore list by two or three posters. It's up to well over a hundred by now.

[theHandpuppet]

157. Ha-ha! And posters like this condemn others for being judgmental

While touting an ignore list of over an hundred. Quite funny, really.

[DemBones DemBones]

265. THAT is funny as hell! Some people don't

know irony when they trip over it.

[Richard Steele]

138. What disgustingly arrogant elitist BS. Jeans = "no manners"? What utter rot.

[cgrindley]

181. Elitist?

Jeans = no manners at like the White House. If that's an elitist attitude, then I guess I'm an elitist.

[Richard Steele]

201. Pretending that "manners" are somehow related to the price of someone's pants? Elitist snobbery.

Not even "textbook" snobbish elitism,
more like "comic book".

Yes, that is most certainly an "elitist attitude";
an arrogant and obnoxious one.

[cgrindley]

206. How are thrift store slacks elitist?

Are certain fabrics elitist? Every single one of my pairs of jeans cost well over 150 dollars. I wouldn't wear them to the White House, but I would wear a 10 dollar pair of dress pants from TJ Maxx. That's hardly elitist. But since you want to throw that word at me like it's an insult, go ahead.

I guess I'm a huge elitist.

[Richard Steele]

263. Pull the other one- it's got bells on.

[cgrindley]

292. The dress code doesn't mention price

you could easily get a cheap and clean pair of slacks from Goodwill for a buck or two, team them up with a nice short sleeved button shirt, and off you go to the White House. It's not about spending money. It's about not looking like a slob.

[Richard Steele]

298. Because it's not about "price", it's about snobbish concepts of the appearance of social class.

Elitist asshattery typical of this imperial president...and his supporters.

[cgrindley]

304. I don't support Bush

I hate Bush. I'm a diehard Liberal. I'm an outspoken Clinton and Obama supporter. Why would hating looking like a snob make me a republican?

[Richard Steele]

311. You seem to share his inbred disdain for the peasantry and all its trappings.

You're a diehard liberal who just happens to dislike jeans
and clotheslines, and who felt the need to start his DU
career with a childishly homophobic sigline straight out
of FreeRepublic.

Yeah, that's believable. Please, tell me more. :eyes:

[RedCappedBandit]

205. Apparently, you are. NT

[Odin2005]

287. Elitism is contrary to the values of the Democratic Party and American Liberalism.

[cgrindley]

289. If you want to define elitism

as being opposed to wearing flipflops and jeans to the White House, then you have a pretty crappy definition of both elitism and liberalism.

Go ahead, keep calling me an elitist. You're only making yourself look silly.

[mondo joe]

310. Saying citizens have no right to disrespect their government is definitely non-Democratic.

As well as unAmerican.

But you already expressed your rather dismissive view of Americans and our rights.

[alarimer]

60. Some people just don't have the money to buy nice clothes

or whatever your elitist standard happens to be. They might buy clothes at Wal-Mart. I am sorry it doesn't meet with your approval.

[Name removed]

184. Deleted message

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[Name removed]

211. Deleted message

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[Raine]

217. Who can afford Wal-Mart

I get most all of my clothes from Goodwell or Salvation Army but I don't dress like a skank or hobo. I don't see as money has anything to do with it. I don't know why you would jump to the conclusion that it's all due to money, that's seems pretty elitist.

[cgrindley]

228. Wal-Mart clothing prices

Wrangler Chinos 14 bucks
button up shirt 10 bucks

you can buy nice clothes at wal-mart. the clothes are inexpensive too. Or, as other posters have mentioned, purchasing clean inexpensive slacks and shirts at Goodwill is even more cost-effective.

price has nothing to do with it.

[RedCappedBandit]

234. Uh-huh..

Why should money be wasted on clothes that serve no practical purpose? Money is part of the issue. Even if it wasn't, it isn't your place (or anybodys) to tell others how to dress.

[cgrindley]

252. Apparently it is

because otherwise people would wear flipflops to the White House.

PS a 14 dollar pair of chinos and a 10 dollar button up shirt are probably highly useful purchases for just about everyone

[Piperay]

340. It's certainly "elitist" of YOU

to assume that because somone doesn't have money and shops at Wal-Mart that they can't look and dress properly :wtf: is up with that?!?

[Cha]

143. That's pretty much their

fucking choice.

[devilgrrl]

204. Don't get this guy going about people who choose to line-dry their laundry.

It's priceless.

[VTMechEngr]

231. Why's that?

[devilgrrl]

235. Check it out...

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=389&topic_id=983813&mesg_id=985188

[mondo joe]

236. I think someone is doing a smear job on Canadians.

:-(

[Richard Steele]

274. Oh, is he Canadian again?

Sometimes he isn't, you know. ;)

[cgrindley]

290. a'hem

I'm always Canadian. I just happen to live in the US.

[Richard Steele]

291. If you're Canadian, how are you a Democrat?

[cgrindley]

305. I'm a supporter of the Democrat party

although I cannot vote, I do volunteer for the candidate of my choice. This last primary season, I volunteered for Ned Lamont.

[VTMechEngr]

308. What is this "Democrat" Party you speak of?

Vaguely reminds me of one of dubya's favorite strawmen.

[Richard Steele]

368. Nice catch. nm

[Richard Steele]

309. Just not their IDEALS, huh?

Do you really think anyone believes this stuff?

[Richard Steele]

365. I heard Lieberman had some of his supporters work for the Lamont campaign to spy, and disrupt it.

Did you see anything suggestive of that while you were there?

[mondo joe]

306. In fantasyland you can be anything you want.

[VTMechEngr]

245. Can we expel him from Connecticut?

Dang Nutmegger is selling me wooden nutmegs again;) You have to realize that many of the people I work with including myself live in houses without Air Conditioning (which would be so nice today). I know a few families who hang laundry out to get that nice country fresh smell.

[devilgrrl]

261. Now that you mention it, I have got outside and get mine off the line!

:evilgrin:

I love the smell of air dried clothes :-)

[devilgrrl]

284. BTW, I was born in Hartford...

and my Grandparents used to live in Winsor Locks. Grandma air dried her wash too. The neighborhood did fine.

[Le Taz Hot]

251. OMG! I forgot about that post!

It was actually pretty funny -- unintentionally, of course.

[Raine]

213. Isn't that what I said?

That it should be their "fucking choice" and not a rule...

[Hippo_Tron]

341. I do too, but I don't see why looking good can't inclue blue jeans and flip-flops

I love the blue jeans, button down, and a sport coat look. In the summer, that sometimes includes flip-flops. I actually wore blue jeans and a sport coat on a tour of congress. Flip-flops weren't exactly a good idea considering it was snowing outside.

[madrchsod]

17. "They didn't get all decked out for the occasion.

Instead, they wore homemade clothes and coonskin caps to the grand inauguration party. Andrew Jackson had invited the whole nation.
The people gathered in the streets until the guards were unable to hold them back. Soon they bolted through the White House doors like a herd of wild buffalo. People were packed so tight that many items like dishes and vases were broken, and men stood in good chairs with muddy boots just to get a better view."

i guess the prez does`t want the great unwashed in OUR HOUSE!

[DeSwiss]

19. My 10th grade teacher lectured us on that.....

...and I'm sorry to say I'd forgotten it. And it was Tennessee history class! Sorry Mr. Angel.

[Name removed]

82. Deleted sub-thread

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[proud2BlibKansan]

102. BEST POST IN THE THREAD!!

[NYC Liberal]

112. With a pic to go along:

[Heidi]

20. But Crocs with presidential-seal socks are okay?

:yoiks:

ETA:
http://shoeblogs.com/wordpress/2007/06/12/impeach-him/

[DeSwiss]

22. Thanks for the post....

...now we know what "appropriate" attire is:

[Le Taz Hot]

254. Oh, goddess!

My eyes! This guy looks like the bad tourista we make fun of on our California beaches. "Don't tell me, let me guess. You're from out of town?" :rofl:

[Scout1071]

312. Why in the fuck do we have to pay for "presidential socks"?

What a flagrant waste of money.

[knitter4democracy]

178. Aaaaahahahahahahahaha!

What a dork! Wait! He's wearing shorts, too! Ack! Are they going to kick him out and make him come back dressed better? ;)

[MRM]

21. Well

My kids go to public schools and the dress code there prohibit the same things and a lot more.

[Raine]

23. Yeah, when I used to go "clubbing"

you weren't allowed in if you were wearing any of that stuff and more. The only difference was mini skirts...were not just allowed they were encouraged. :-)

[Hekate]

24. Wasn't it Andrew Jackson who threw open the WH to everyone on Inauguration Day?

I seem to remember some high school history lesson about that -- there was a big ol' wheel of cheese for the visitors, among other edibles, and frontiersmen and other rough characters tromping on the rugs. Scandalized the society types of the Capital. Seems we had at least one president who understood that the White House is the People's House.

It's not the Vatican.

Hekate

[NoPasaran]

46. Yep, that was Old Hickory

[RevolutionStartsNow]

25. Back when Reagan was in office...

I had my picture taken just outside the WH with a t-shirt that said "Dose Ronnie" and a picture of his face melting.

(I've changed a lot since then, really, it was a LONG time ago. But it was funny.)

Bet I'd get in trouble for that today.

[DeSwiss]

27. Today, you would need to include with that ensemble.....

...a very good lawyer. And bail.

[Control-Z]

28. Banning

the embarrassing offspring, huh?

[The Count]

29. Wow! Like the Vatican!

I remember visiting as a child and being given a long sleeves sweater to wear when going in! It made an impression (even more pig headed than my school!)

[DemBones DemBones]

246. People wear jeans and sneakers in the Vatican now.

I've only been to Rome in winter, but I know tourists are turned away from churches all over Italy in summer if they're exposing too much flesh. People should know better than to dress that way for visiting churches but tourists often behave badly.

[The Count]

360. I was a little girl in a summer dress...

[riona]

33. OK, I'll wear Doc Martens & a flannel nightgown

[Heidi]

130. That ensemble would certainly convey the degree of respect earned

by the Lord of the Manor, wouldn't it? :rofl: :spray:

[JerseygirlCT]

322. I think this could work. Start a movement! Everyone show up that way! nt

[terip64]

34. Good luck when all the 8th graders visit next spring. n/t

[iwillalwayswonderwhy]

35. I get not showing loads of flesh

But what on earth is wrong with blue jeans and t-shirts and sneakers for tourists? Your body is covered in that. What about mid-summer heat?

[shimmergal]

113. I don't _care_ what people wear to stand in line

at the White House.

But where on earth does anyone get the idea that blue jeans and T-shirts are the best way to cope with summer heat? T-shirts--like all knits--are hotter than cotton (or even blends) wovenwear, and denim is even more so. Try some summer shorts, or (for women) a lightweight skirt or dress if you really want to stay cool, rather than make a statement.

[VTMechEngr]

176. Shorts are banned. n/t

[ThomWV]

36. Who the fuck do they think they are? Don't they know, YOU AND I OWN THAT FUCKING HOUSE.

Asshats.

[Name removed]

87. Deleted message

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[ikojo]

37. So when Jenna and not Jenna visit from their

recent drunken fests, they wont be allowed in if they look like sluts?

[cascadiance]

69. So can we ask Babs and Jenna conform to dress code or be thrown out?...

or will we be told that this is "executive privilege" for them! :eyes:

[July]

38. So when we the people are in The People's House, we can't wear what we want?

Can they really enforce this? What law would be broken by jeans, miniskirts, etc.?

[proud2BlibKansan]

39. So what are they going to do if I wear shorts and flip flops?

Call my mom?

[cgrindley]

41. They're going to NOT let you in

that's what they'll do. No tour for you.

But really why would you show so little respect for your nation's capital and your chief executive's house? It actually makes me ill. Chimpy is just one out of a large number of presidents to live there.

Just out of respect to Carter and Kennedy and FDR and Wilson and Lincoln, perhaps you should dress appropriately. Jesus. It's a pretty important place. Try to take it seriously.

[proud2BlibKansan]

52. Unless they are giving me a paycheck, I haven't let anyone tell me what to wear

since I was in high school. And I spent most of those high school years fighting a repressive and sexist dress code.

FYI, if I was to go to the White House, I would want to wear this:

[Name removed]

94. Deleted sub-thread

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[RedCappedBandit]

62. "dress appropriately"

Lets think about this for a second. If you were to ask me, I'd be willing to bet that the whole idea comes from elitist classism dating back hundreds of years.

[cgrindley]

91. NOT wearing flipflops, wifebeaters and shorts

is hardly elitist. Jesus. Come on. Where's the common sense? Where's the respect?

[RedCappedBandit]

92. Wheres the common sense?

What exactly is wrong with sneakers and jeans? God forbid somebody wear shorts in the middle of the summer in DC!

[cgrindley]

96. I have no idea where the common sense is

it should be obvious that you shouldn't dress like a slob when you visit the Whitehouse.

[proud2BlibKansan]

104. Better tell the twins!

[RedCappedBandit]

163. So now

wearing jeans is dressing like a slob? Wow, i'm shocked to be reading this at DU.

[cgrindley]

219. It's all a matter of context

jeans at White House = slobbery
jeans at the Metropolitan Opera = slobbery
jeans at the Vatican = slobbery
jeans at Claridges = slobbery

jeans at Yankee Stadium = okay
jeans at Metropolitan museum = okay

and so on...

it's a matter of common sense.

[VTMechEngr]

232. Oh I see! One who sees slobbery is just suffering from Snobbery.

[RedCappedBandit]

233. Oh Please.

Why should Americans waste their money on silly clothes that have no practical purpose other than to impress people like you? It is totally UNamerican to deny people who don't own "dress up" clothes access to tour their nation's capital.

[cgrindley]

257. oh dear

so chinos and a chambray shirt is dressing up? want to explain?

[cornermouse]

302. In a word, Yes.

If you don't already have them, never use them, and have to buy them to wear for a single vacation day, then yes, it is dressing up. When I'm not at work and go to anywhere I wear jeans. I'm not about to wear work clothes on vacation either.

[Odin2005]

295. Only if you define "common sense" as "social construct created by snobs."

[Hell Hath No Fury]

361. OH MY GOD, I'M A SLOB!

jeans at White House = done that
jeans at the Metropolitan Opera = done that
jeans at the Vatican = done that
jeans at Claridges = haven't done that, but did wear jeans to high tea at The Ritz London

It appears, I am single-handedly bring down the all that is good and great and moral and...and...and...ohmygod the HUMANITY!!!!!!!

Luckily, I don't give a shit what people like you think about me. :shrug:

[VTMechEngr]

182. Oh, so we commoners are slobs?

Yessir Master, we'se gonna dress-appropriately for yahs now.

Sorry to break it to you, but the old styles of dress, died years ago. Welcome to 2007!

[Richard Steele]

277. Bloody peasants, all of ye!

I always enjoy Grindley's trollery. He's such an amusing little douche.

[SharonRB]

331. Wearing nice jeans and a clean t-shirt

doesn't make one look like a slob. I get not showing a lot of skin or very sloppy clothing, but this ban on all shorts, all jeans, all t-shirts and all flip flops is absolutely ridiculous for tourists.

[Mojorabbit]

74. I don't get

how wearing jeans and sneakers are a sign of disrespect.

[Name removed]

98. Deleted message

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[cgrindley]

218. Why don't you get it?

where and when did you grow up?

[VTMechEngr]

269. What town do you live in?

So I can avoid it in the future.

[Mojorabbit]

301. I am 51

and grew up as a military brat all over the world. It smacks of the old saw of the clothes make the man type of thing. I was raised to look past that to the person behind the trappings.

[Odin2005]

297. The only thing it disrespects is the BS sensibillities of snobs that hate working class people

[NYC Liberal]

97. It is NOT the "chief executive's house", it is the PEOPLE'S HOUSE

And the people are PAYING for that house, so they should damn well be able to wear what they want. I'm not saying people should be able to walk in in their birthday suit, but jeans and a t-shirt are perfectly fine. No reason why those should not be allowed.

[cgrindley]

100. Ummm... that house was bought by generation upon generation

of Americans starting with those who created the country. Who is it hurting to show those people the respect they deserve?

Did you free the slaves? Lincoln did. He lived in the Whitehouse. Why not show him some respect? A pair of cheap slacks and a cheap white shirt and a pair of proper shoes from Payless. Who's that hurting?

And why shouldn't you show those people respect? Americans today are so self-centered.

[NYC Liberal]

105. Who said anything about not showing respect?

There isn't anything wrong with a pair of jeans and t-shirt. It is not disrespectful at all.

The White House used to be a lot more open back in Lincoln's day, and I'll bet you there were a good number of people who came in "tatty" clothes (for that era)...do you think he cared one whit?

There's nothing "self-centered" about it. Not at all.

[cgrindley]

189. I'll bet they didn't

I'll bet that if you showed up to visit Mr and Mrs Lincoln, you wore your Sunday best or you didn't get in at all. Mrs Lincoln, remember, was a wicked social climbing snob.

[NYC Liberal]

240. You still have not explained why it's okay for Bush to wear a t-shirt,

sneakers and shorts at the White House, but it's not okay for The People to.

[cgrindley]

348. I haven't even mentioned him

but I will. It is a crime against reason that Bush is allowed on White House property. It doesn't matter what he wears. He is a continual walking insult to all things right and just about America and its long history.

[Le Taz Hot]

264. OK, my Sunday best

is currently a T-shirt and underwear. (What? It's 103 fucking degrees outside!)

[NYC Liberal]

109. Also, why can Bush where sneakers, shorts, and a t-shirt at the WH,

but The People cannot?

[DemBones DemBones]

273. He wears a suit in the West Wing, where he works. Where he lives,

he dresses casually. Most people dress more casually at home, though most of the people in this thread act as if they've never had to wear nice clothes to work or anywhere else.

[NYC Liberal]

328. So are the tourists at work? No, they aren't.

They are sightseeing, which is a casual thing, considering the amount of walking and the heat.

This isn't about "Oh fuck nice clothes, they should NEVER be worn." Going to the White House for a formal state dinner and going on a sightseeing tour there are two different things.

PS - Why can Bush's daughters wear jeans there then? They don't live there.

[DemBones DemBones]

333. Go read the posts from onenote, find out TOURISTS DON'T HAVE TO FOLLOW THE RULES.

I just answered a question that was asked more than once: "why can Bush wear shorts at the WH?"

As for your other question, Bush's daughters don't live there but it is one of the places where their parents live so they can wear whatever they like, as most people do when staying with their parents.

But, according to onenote, this whole thing is a misunderstanding.

[mondo joe]

127. How many people in those generations wore jeans to work on farms, in mines, in factories

and many other places?

Good enough to work in to pay for the White House, just not good enough to wear TO the white house?

[cgrindley]

177. None of them would have worn their work clothes

to meet with FDR. They would have put on their Sunday best.

[mondo joe]

194. Why limit the question to FDR?

What''s wrong with looking at contemporary standards for contemporary people?

[cgrindley]

195. Because

the White House has some pretty important history behind it. That history deserves some respect. I personally don't understand why people aren't getting it.

[mondo joe]

197. And you think it's the white house role to legally require respect in the form of clothing?

I don't see what's disrespectful about jeans to begin with. Can you quantify that?

[cgrindley]

199. Why don't you get it?

I don't understand how you could lived however many years you've lived without realizing that jeans are inappropriate in certain circumstances. Oh wait... are you a boomer? You're a boomer aren't you?

[mondo joe]

200. I get that you have an opinion. I also get that you think your opinion is empirical fact.

I just don't get why you'd think such a thing.

[RedCappedBandit]

237. "Sunday best"

And what about those people who don't feel the need to dress up every sunday, thereby not buying the silly little clothes that such people wear?

[cgrindley]

258. ummm

so chinos, a short sleeved button up shirt and a pair of deck shoes is somehow dressing up? how so?

[mondo joe]

278. Republicans and Religionists - two groups that confuse what you wear with what

you think.

[Le Taz Hot]

256. "Chief Executive's house?"

Um, no, that would be OUR house. He's a temp. and is afforded OUR temporary housing.

[cgrindley]

260. No it isn't your house

it's the chief executive's house. it is government property. and although it might be a shock to you, but as a taxpayer, you do NOT own government property nor do you have any special rights to access it. but if you don't believe me, why not try to just walk onto a military base or into the treasury etc.

[Le Taz Hot]

268. OMG, my head is spinning.

WHO do you think the government is???? Which means government property IS mine (along with 300 million other Americans). It's paid for with MY taxpayer dollars.

Military base argument = strawman. People aren't banned because of their dress, they're banned for national security reasons.

I was reminded that you are the one who thinks laundry hanging out to dry is an "eyesore."

I'd put you on ignore but you are FAR too amusing.

[cgrindley]

276. but hanging laundry is an eyesore

and government property isn't yours.

How about you sue the government for your share? How about you try to get into any federal office past official closing times? How about you try to appear in front of a judge in flipflops and a wifebeater? Let's see how well that goes.

I'm all for wearing shorts and flipflops by the way (currently, I am wearing a pair of blue J Crew flipflops, a pair of Old Navy brown cargo shorts and a BBQ shirt, but I sure wouldn't dress like this for the White House).

[Le Taz Hot]

280. . . .

OH, do keep going. You've got about an hour before the first intermission.

:popcorn:

[Odin2005]

299. Yep, you just proved that you are an elitist jerk.

"hanging laundry is an eyesore"

Hanging laundry instead of using an energy-consuming dryer is good for the environment. The environment is more important then your eyes.

[Hissyspit]

336. These American citizens are tourists. They are an vacation. Some of them the only vacation

they will have all year. Some of them maybe the only vacation they will have for a lifetime.

They dress for summer vacation. It is hot and difficult to carry items you need to make a tour of a major city. Some of them don't really know any better, but they are no less American citizens.

Screw the Bush Administration and screw their fashion sense and screw their rules.

[cgrindley]

40. I think it's a good thing

People are slobs and should shape up. It's the god damn Whitehouse. Clean yourself up, America, and perhaps purchase a mirror. You look terrible.

[NoPasaran]

49. If you're with the Fashion Police

What's your badge number?

[RedCappedBandit]

63. Yeah?

What if I think you look terrible? Should you be forced to conform to my standards of decency?
No, because thats a stupid idea.

[Commie Pinko Dirtbag]

103. That includes jeans? JEANS?

[Hippo_Tron]

343. People can't accept that jeans are becoming more and more fashionable

I can understand considering that they originally were work clothes. But fashions change. If I were President I would totally let this guy into the White House, I'd also make him my personal physician, but that's another story.

[Commie Pinko Dirtbag]

355. Whoever hates jeans hates America. What's more American than jeans?

[Name removed]

137. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[Kingshakabobo]

153. LOL

[RandiFan1290]

159. I miss those guys!

I must have watched 'Strange Brew' about a brazillion times as a kid. :)

[OneBlueSky]

42. in today's world, many kids don't own any shoes other than sneakers . . .

these rules are asinine . . . not surprising, I guess, since they are promulgated by assholes . . .

[Solly Mack]

44. outward appearances of respect for the office... LMAO

respect the office (and the man) by allowing it to reflect in your dress...LMAO

it's so NOT the image of the building known as the White House they are aiming this at

[MetaTrope]

45. And if you bring the proper burnt offerings, Our Lord God on Earth may appear to bless you

[proud2BlibKansan]

53. Watch the video at the link

It says that AFTER standing in line, people are told they can't come in if they aren't dressed appropriately.

So they let these people WAIT and THEN they kick them out? Good grief, can the people in this administration be BIGGER assholes??

[frogcycle]

59. well, see, while you are waiting

they are "data mining" to find out your politics. it's sort of like voter caging - weed out hte undesirables. They probably have loaner burkhas available for any bushies who are not properly attired.

[moondust]

54. What does Barney have to wear?

I"m not dressing up any more than the dog has to.

[proud2BlibKansan]

106. But I'll bet they won't let you shit on the lawn

Barney gets to do all the fun stuff.

[moondust]

120. I'll bet he has peed in the corner.

Bush, I mean.

And they want us to wear our Sunday clothes just to get a look at that corner!

[AngryOldDem]

55. There're more and better things to see in DC anyway...

When I took a White House "tour" it was conducted at a fast-paced jog. You could not stop to look at anything, you were basically led into one door and then out another. The thing barely lasted a half-hour, as I recall, and was definitely NOT worth the two hour wait in the blistering sun at the park across the street to get in.

I'd rather spend my time at the Smithsonian.

[Hippo_Tron]

342. You don't even get to see the west wing unless you have connections

All you see is the ceremonial rooms which aren't very excited. I'd dress up and wait in line for two hours to see the west wing, but not the things they show on the typical tour.

[SalmonChantedEvening]

56. It isn't enough that * plays dress-up, now we have to play it for HIM?

He and his toadies can't govern, but they have time for this nonsense.

[alarimer]

58. THIS from a guy who wore Crocs with socks?

And ugly shorts?

[RedCappedBandit]

61. How much money did we pay these assholes

to come up with this crap?

[lonestarnot]

66. But it's ok to wear your fucking curtains!

[proud2BlibKansan]

108. This meets the dress code!

[Le Taz Hot]

315. ROFLMAO!

:rofl:
"I saw it hanging in the window and I just HAD to have it."

[NMMNG]

68. I don't care

It's not like I'd be visiting there any time soon.

[VP505]

73. How disappointing!

Guess that means I can't wear my "FUCK W" T-shirt on the White House tour.

[RedCappedBandit]

76. I'm sure you could find a

"FUCK W" Polo. :D

[in_cog_ni_to]

79. Dear Leader wants no visitors in HIS White House. He really does think he can DICTATE what U.S.

citizens wear to visit THEIR house. He's a true sociopath.

[Poiuyt]

84. That is the STUPIDEST rule I've ever heard

I can see it for people who work there, but for the visitors?

[april]

88. I want this little bastard OUT of ours lives..oh my little king GW has spoken

[eleny]

89. Yup, he needs a new suit

[TalkingDog]

93. WhiteHouse.org has already ......elaborated.

http://www.whitehouse.org/tours/index.asp

I didn't realize it was in response to this story..... Wow.

Every time I think I am flabbergasted by this administration's utter contempt for the people they work for, I am, yet again, surprised.

Abusive and dysfunctional doesn't even begin to describe their relationship with the utter "commoners" they purportedly "serve.

(edited for self-grammar Nazi-ing)

[in_cog_ni_to]

107. whitehouse.ORG is a spoof of the whitehouse.GOV web site. :)

:hi:

[TalkingDog]

122. Thanks for telling those who weren't aware of the fact. I, however, knew that.

Being correct is always so nice.

[proud2BlibKansan]

110. Okay picture this scenario

Mom, Dad, 2 kids. Mom is wearing a nice little summer dress and shoes, Dad is wearing a polo shirt and khakis, kids have on shorts, t-shirts and tennis shoes.

They stand in line for an hour and then they are told that Mom and Dad can come in but the kids are not dressed appropriately.

So who babysits the kids while Mom and Dad tour the White House? Mark Foley? :evilgrin:

[hedgehog]

170. They should leave the kids in a car parked in the sun

with the windows rolled up.

[proud2BlibKansan]

187. Now that you mentioned that

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=389&topic_id=1465745&mesg_id=1465745

[glitch]

115. That's funny - blue jeans are an American invention aren't they?

Not surprised that this particular White House would ban an American icon. Of course now that they are made in China I suppose it doesn't much matter anymore.

Creepy people.

[kineneb]

224. a California invention, by Levi Strauss

the story is that the gold miners needed sturdy pants, and L. S. hit upon making trousers out of denim sail cloth. I'm sure there is a website with more accurate info.

Maybe da' Bushies hate California (well, we know they do).

A clean t-shirt and jeans can be quite modest dress. The major body parts are covered; add a "nice" pair of shoes, even if they be sneakers (some which can be quite pricey), and no one should be offended. A lot of folks own only this type of clothing, not needing any other styles for their normal lifestyle.

Remind me not to go to the WH until the goons leave.

[Exiled in America]

117. Yet another way that BuchCo makes government for the privileged elite.

I am poor, and close to filing bankruptcy. I don't own a suit, the only pants I have are jeans. If for some reason I was able to be in D.C. I think its sad that I wouldn't be able to visit the White House that is supposed to be part of a government OF THE PEOPLE AND BY THE PEOPLE AND FOR THE PEOPLE - because I'm not "classy" enough.

[treestar]

118. Who the hell are they to tell us what to wear?

As long as it's not illegal, we can wear what we damn well please.

Do they have a full time person at the WH to think up outrageous authoritarian crap to see if it will fly with the public?

It is NOT Chimpy's house.

[janx]

226. Chimpy thinks it's his house.

Have you ever seen the bogus seal that says "Western White House"? He erects it at his ranch in Texas when he does photo ops there.

[mondo joe]

128. Millions of Americans paid for the WH wearing jeans in factories, farms, mines

and everywhere else.

How uncouth of the working people of America to think the clothes they wear to pay for the White House are good enough to wear TO the White House.

:eyes>

[Heidi]

133. Right on.

:thumbsup:

Further, the man hates flip-flops, but he wears Crocs with shorts and presidential-seal socks. :wtf: This does not inspire much confidcence in his fashion sense, in my view.

[mondo joe]

135. If he wants to impose dress codes, he should start with his daughters and then Karl Rove's hair

disaster.

[Heidi]

136. If we're gonna go down that road,

his daughters oughta be wearin' combat boots. But combat boots probably aren't allowed in the White House, either. :grr:

[Heidi]

132. If wear flip-flops, a mini-skirt and a T-shirt * to earn the income on which I'm taxed

and which helps support the White House, why shouldn't I be able to wear the same ensemble when I visit the place I've helped fund?

*Disclaimer: I do not, in fact, ever wear mini-skirts. But I have been known to wear Levi's 501s (still jeans, last time I checked) in combination with a black turtleneck and lovely stiletto boots even to business meetings. How would this not be suitable for the White House?

[Cha]

134. I wouldn't want to go in that stinkin'

chimp house when the current squatters are shitin' all over the place.

They couldn't pay me enough to defile my temple by being exposed to their toxic rays. They can go Fuck their chickenshithawk selves.

[Heidi]

139. You're just miffed because you can't pull off

the whole socks-and-Crocs thang, huh? :rofl:

(Kidding. Kidding.)

[Cha]

146. That's right!

:P

That is so fucking UGLY! Little shitforbrains.

[NYC Liberal]

147. LOL, or a ski parka at a Holocaust Memorial!

[Heidi]

158. The hat is even worse than the parka.

:yoiks:

[cui bono]

186. Haha... I remember seeing that on the news. It actually got some coverage. n/t

[Horse with no Name]

140. This is meant to keep the tourists out

Plain and simple.
There is nothing wrong with any of what is banned.
Personally I wear leather sandals that resemble flip-flops and tennis shoes because of a back injury--those are the most comfortable for me to WALK in without rendering me to bed for a few days.

[RedCappedBandit]

167. Among other absurdities..

who in their right mind expects people to not wear sneakers when they're touring DC? What a load of garbage.

[onenote]

243. Do you have any idea how tours of the WH are arranged?

I suspect you don't if you think this has anything to do with keeping tourists out of the WH.

[mentalsolstice]

149. I could really split hairs on this...

The forbidden items include jeans, sneakers, mini-skirts, t-shirts, tank tops and absolutely no flip flops.

Jeans - exactly what does this mean - denim material? blue?, double stitching? standard five pockets? What about a denim skirt or dress?

Sneakers - I wear Keens everyday? What about Keds? Does the material make a difference? What about the soles?

Mini-skirts - Well, exactly what is that? Above the knee? Do we use a fingertip test?

T-shirts - What constitutes a tee? Graphics? Size of band around collar? Material? My husband and I have different opinions about what constitutes a tee.

Tank tops - What does the width of the material have to be to differentiate a tank from a sleeveless shirt?

Flip flops - Can I wear sandals? Is that anything that flops at the back of the heel? Birkis? What is it's a thong style, but with a hell strap? Can I wear an open heeled shoe. What about a pump with a peek-a-boo toe?

Shorts - what about capris or cropped trousers?

Funny much of the banned stuff is perfectly acceptable in many churches...just sayin'!

[Heidi]

160. Do NOT show yer nekkid toes, shoulders or knees!

Or you'll burn in hell after being thoroughly body-cavity searched by the Secret Service. That's what it means. :scared:

[Rex]

150. Whatever you do, don't call it fascism.

It seems the corporate world has a trademark on that word. Sounds like the WH is jealous.

[Stinky The Clown]

161. Shit. I can't wear my "Pull My Finger" t-shirt?

What's a clown to do?

Hey, Chimpy ..... will these shoes be okay for ya?



as if this is an important matter. They can lie cheat and steal, but we can't wear flip flops.

[YvonneCa]

162. Intentional distraction...

...like terror alerts. Just wait and see...anything happening news-wise that the public shouldn't know???


Like Gonzales' testimony, Tillman investigation, the mess in the stock market last week or this:

http://www.pbs.org/now/shows/330/video.html ??????

[Miss Chybil]

165. One must show respect to the Crown.

And if one does not own anything other than jeans, then off with his head! This is America afterall.

[hedgehog]

169. I thought Bush was a history major. Apparent.ly, he's never heard of Andrew Jackson!

"After Jackson’s swearing-in ceremony and address to Congress, the new president returned to the White House to meet and greet a flock of politicians, celebrities and citizens. Very shortly, the crowd swelled to more than 20,000, turning the usually dignified White House into a boisterous mob scene. Some guests stood on furniture in muddy shoes while others rummaged through rooms looking for the president--breaking dishes, crystal and grinding food into the carpet along the way. (White House staff reported the carpets smelled of cheese for months after the party.) In an attempt to draw partygoers out of the building, servants set up washtubs full of juice and whiskey on the White House lawn."

[JerseygirlCT]

323. Oh come on. Studying is for the little people! nt

[troubleinwinter]

171. I really thought this was from The Onion. Happens more & more lately. No such luck.

[aaronbees]

220. LOL, I know what you mean

It would be hard to come up with some of this stuff. BushCo passed into self-parody for strangeness a long time ago.

[knitter4democracy]

174. I dressed up when I went in '98.

I didn't think it appropriate not to wear a skirt. It's the White House. Granted, it was winter for the Christmas decorations (I had an ornament on the tree), but still--I made sure to look nice.

I didn't wear shorts to the Capitol in '92, either, and that was in the July heat.

Then again, they probably got the idea from the Pope--no shorts or miniskirts in the Vatican, either.

[RedCappedBandit]

207. The church has got it all wrong

Jesus wouldn't be supportive of this "dress code" garbage.

[knitter4democracy]

210. I agree.

Heck, they'd kick Him out for not dressing right. :eyes:

[Vinca]

175. Considering we pay for the place, we ought to be able to tour it

in our jammies if we want. This must be Shrub's way of insuring he doesn't get within a thousand feet of a poor person.

[troubleinwinter]

179. "National Dress Code" legislation to be introduced.

[janx]

188. No JEANS?

C'mon. The best dressed guy I ever saw was wearing a pair of those. He changed his shirt and put on a belt for dinner, but the jeans were still there.

Man oh man. I will never forget it.

[kenny blankenship]

190. The White House! Now there's a good place for Code Pink to expose their flip flops

[RB TexLa]

192. I don't think for tourists it should matter. But no one working there or there for an appointment

should wear jeans.

[janx]

214. WHO is responsible for this decision?

And why? Seriously--no jeans? People look wonderful in jeans.

Remember when the Chimp first took office--the dress code that demanded women not wear pant suits? What does Pickles wear just about every day?

What is really going on here, some kind of weird PR effort to take us back to the 50s?

[YvonneCa]

225. See #172 above. n/t

[janx]

229. But what a perfectly stupid idea.

If they really wanted people to look at least decent upon visiting the WH, they should have made a polite request instead of installing a dress code banning jeans and sneakers.

[YvonneCa]

316. They don't care how people look...

...they want the controversy...as a DISTRACTION. It's a stupid idea if what you want is neat people...but a great idea if you want people to talk about it, instead of noticing something more important. Just look at this thread. I rest my case. :)

[LWolf]

230. It looks like a day needs to be dedicated to visiting the WH.

Thousands standing in line for tours, all of them wearing jeans, tshirts, and flipflops.

[onenote]

242. You don't get into the WH by standing in line

There aren't open public tours of the WH. The only tours are VIP tours or self-guided tours for small groups that are prearranged by members of Congress. That's it.

[NMDemDist2]

244. interesting! so there are no public tours in the WH anymore?

good grief

[onenote]

249. To clarify -- there are self-guided "public tours" but they're limited

From the WH website:

Public tours of the White House are available for groups of 10 or more people. Requests must be submitted through one's Member of Congress and are accepted up to six months in advance. These self-guided tours are available from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday (excluding federal holidays), and are scheduled on a first come, first served basis approximately one month in advance of the requested date. We encourage you to submit your request as early as possible since a limited number of tours are available. All White House tours are free of charge. For the most current tour information, please call the 24-hour line at 202-456-7041. Please note that White House tours may be subject to last minute cancellation

[LWolf]

279. So a lot of groups need to prearrange a visit.

:shrug:

If I ever found myself at the opposite end of the country in the DC area, I'd expect to be able to visit.

[onenote]

239. For everyone getting worked up about this -- you realize that the story is misleading, right?

The dress code restrictions, which actually aren't really that new, apply to visitors who enter the West Gate of the White House. The only folks who enter that way are official visitors and VIP guests. If any of you are thinking of showing up to tour the West Wing of the WH, you can wear a tuxedo and you aren't getting in unless its a prearranged VIP tour.

In fact, there are no public tours of the WH like there were in the old days. There are self-guided tours for small groups that enter through the East Gate. These tours have to be arranged through your member of Congress and according to the guard I asked this morning, there is no dress code restriction for tourists entering through the east gate.

Now can we actually worry about something real and important rather than this BS?

[senseandsensibility]

317. Your post clarifies some things but clouds others

I am glad that the rules don't apply to tourists, but not happy that it is now so difficult to tour the White House. When did it start becoming so difficult to tour the people's house? I had no problem in the eighties as I recall.

[onenote]

339. after 9/11 unreserved public tours were discontinued

[Hippo_Tron]

344. Are you sure that public tours of the west wing were allowed before?

Or did you have to know someone.

[Hippo_Tron]

345. Good catch on there

If this only applies to the west wing, I'm fine with it. If you're going to go through the trouble to get into the west wing, then you can throw on a pair of slacks.

[pinto]

241. A note about civility:

Personal Attacks, Civility and Respect

The administrators of Democratic Underground are working to provide a place where progressives can share ideas and debate in an atmosphere of mutual respect. Despite our best efforts, some of our members often stray from this ideal and cheapen the quality of discourse for everyone else. Unfortunately, it is simply impossible to write a comprehensive set of rules forbidding every type of antisocial behavior. The fact that the rules do not forbid a certain type of post does not automatically make an uncivil post appropriate, nor does it imply that the administrators approve of disrespectful behavior. Every member of this community has a responsibility to participate in a respectful manner, and to help foster an atmosphere of thoughtful discussion. In this regard, we strongly advise that our members exercise a little common decency, rather than trying to parse the message board rules to figure out what type of antisocial behavior is not forbidden.

Thanks for your consideration.


http://www.democraticunderground.com/forums/rules_detailed.html

[DemBones DemBones]

248. Thanks, pinto. Civility is always in style.

:hi:

[southerncrone]

250. You's think those items would be the most welcome attire since "terists" couldn't hide contraband

in that clothing. :eyes:

Guess the twin whores will have to "shape up"!

[judaspriestess]

255. just another way of keeping the people out

what assholes. I toured the whitehouse in jeans and sneakers. It was January and it was flippin cold.

[Democrats_win]

259. Funny they let AWOL in and new rules could keep a Veteran out.

[DemBones DemBones]

266. How would the new rules keep a veteran out?

:shrug:

[onenote]

300. no.

Its not. There are two kinds of WH tours. VIP tours of the West Wing. For those, the dress code rules that apply to any person with an appointment apply. ANd there are limited, reservation only "public tours" through the East Gate that have to be arranged through a member of Congress. The dress code rules do not apply to those tours.

[Hersheygirl]

262. Well, that means

most of *'s supporters won't be allowed in.

[Cabcere]

272. Rats - I guess that means I can't wear this outfit, then...

;)

[mondo joe]

275. How on earth did america survive for better than 2 centuries without the dress code?

Lucky for us the bush caught it!

[DemBones DemBones]

286. Everyone seems to have missed onenote's post which would EASE YOUR MINDS.

if you'd read it. Here's part of it:

In fact, there are no public tours of the WH like there were in the old days. There are self-guided tours for small groups that enter through the East Gate. These tours have to be arranged through your member of Congress and according to the guard I asked this morning, there is no dress code restriction for tourists entering through the east gate.

As onenote added, maybe we could talk about something important now.

[THUNDER HANDS]

314. don't most federal places have dress codes?

I know when I go to a federal prison, I can't wear jeans or sandals (not that I would, I go there for work). But in some places you can't even wear khaki pants.

[JerseygirlCT]

321. Good thing they don't have anything important to worry about. nt

[SharonRB]

326. WTF?

Sounds like they just don't want any visitors -- this will certainly discourage an awful lot of people. Many people only bring jeans and t-shirt-type tops on vacation with them.

[B Calm]

329. Had Enough?

[DeSwiss]

332. I've had more than enough.....

There is only one solution....

IMPEACH!!!

[mainer]

330. No SNEAKERS? What do tourists wear, high heels?

This is the part that really gets my goat. You have to wait in long lines just to get into the White House, and they won't let you wear comfortable shoes?

[AZBlue]

335. I'd like to see Americans everywhere take a little more pride in their appearance.

But mandated restrictions for tourists seems a bit extreme.

[Midlodemocrat]

337. Well, THIS American wears flip flops all year long

Why? Because my feet hurt. And Tevas are just about the only thing that alleviates the pain when I have to wear shoes.

If that isn't good enough, then fuck you.

[Beelzebud]

338. Can't have us rabble trashing up the royal palace.

[Hippo_Tron]

346. Everyone plz see post 239, this only applies to the west wing

Which you can't get into any way unless you have business there or if you are very well connected. If this were for tourists I'd be pretty pissed off about it. But it doesn't apply to the tours, because they don't go through the west wing.

If I were in charge, jeans would be fine in the west wing (they were during the Clinton Administration), but I don't think it's something to get outraged about. If you're going to go through the trouble to get into the west wing, for whatever reason, you can throw on a pair of slacks.

[Bucky]

367. Get your damned facts out of the way of my scorn.

Bushies hate blue jeans and therefor hate America. Get on board now and stop all that critical thinking.

[LanternWaste]

351. It's a one-eighty where I work

It's a one-eighty where I work-- pajama pants, flip-flops, and sweats are the horrible norm around here. How I long for a reevaluation our dress-code...

[theboss]

352. I think men should still wear ties to baseball games

So, I may be the wrong person to comment on this....

[B3Nut]

354. Ties are a useless affectation

and serve no useful purpose. Why attend an outdoor event in potentially-hot weather wearing stifling attire? It makes no sense, it's irrational. Most dress attire has no logic to its design, the engineering is poor. ;) All joking aside, I hate ties...pain in the ass. And yes, I can tie 'em just fine. I just think they're beyond pointless as they don't do anything useful other than to cause discomfort.

I only wear a suit if someone's dead. And when I die, I'm going to make sure to ban the damn things at my own funeral. If there is an afterlife and I see anyone at my funeral in a suit I'm going to haunt the motherfuckers! :D Boo!

Todd in Cheesecurdistan

[Bluerthanblue]

357. well then lets go dressed like the emperor himself- naked-!

:nuke:

the clothes don't make the "man"-

If the 'controller' at the WH doesn't like what he sees, that is too bad. It's about time he learned that dressing in costume doesn't change anything- dressing like private school do-bee's won't make people submissive servants. It will only identify those who already suffer from that affliction.

:shrug:

oh, what a world, what a world....

[JHB]

359. Don't give up your Freedom Flops!

All hail All-American Denimwear, Liberty Moccasins, Patrio-pleats, and George Washingtops!

They hate us for our wardrobe!

[moc]

362. Those are stricter dress codes than required to visit the Vatican.

I guess bush is more stuffy than the Catholic Church.