FASHION comes and fashion goes. Fashion furore is equally ephemeral as outrage and fervour come into conflict on what is an acceptable new look.

Early this century, clergymen were threatening hellfire and damnation for young ladies who dared promenade in skirts so short they showed off their ankles, the brazen hussies. Nowadays, skirts can be so short they resemble belts, menacing-looking male haircuts look more like designer stubble.

In their quest for individuality - despite most high street stores stocking similar garments - the fashion-conscious are constantly in search of something different.

This time it is the so-called skouser which is causing turned heads - and raised eyebrows. The skouser is a curious mix of a short skirt worn over wide-legged trousers, not too dissimilar to the young male habit of wearing a baggy shirt outside trousers.

At least one North Yorkshire school has decided it breaks the uniform code. Some employers, too, have frowned on the fashion for their office workers.

The combination is all the rage in the shops, but, like many unusual new looks, it places authority in a dilemma. Do they allow it until it blows over, or do they impose a ban which can cause rebellion or resentment?

Skousers are not over-revealing. But neither are black leather and chains, and that would not be acceptable school or work wear. Dedicated fashion followers must comply with their employer's dress code and save the more unusual vogue for their own time. In the Sixties, there was outrage at women wearing trousers for work.

Nowadays, they are an acceptable, revered and essential item in the professional woman's wardrobe. They are also welcomed by schools as part of the girl pupils' uniform. If skousers stand the test of time, they could become as accepted as pin-stripe suits or the collar and tie. Until then, dress carefully before incurring the wrath of the boss or head teacher.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.