Above you see Princess Mathilde of Belgium watching a semi-final tennis match at Roland-Garros. To cool herself, she chose to bring her elegant fan, which, besides its practical function, emphasizes her feminine charm and demeanor.

I believe the fan should return to fashion, especially among traditionalist and conservative ladies. Let us leave aside the vulgar plastic water bottle that is carried everywhere and sipped straight from the top, the practice today of so many "modern" ladies - young and old - or the gauche portable, battery-operated electric or eletronic hand fan.

The traditional feather or silk and ivory fans never lost their practicality and beauty.

Do use a fan to cool yourself in hot weather

Elaine M. Jordan