Spats

Spats (an abbreviation of the older, archaic term "spatter-dashers") were originally worn by soldiers on campaign to keep dirt and debris out of their boots, and were either whitened or, as khaki uniforms began to be issued in the late 1800s, a natural tan colour. Their use today is chiefly ceremonial and they are only worn with the diced hose tops.

Spats are worn ironed and whitened; there is no such thing as "wash and wear" spats; even those spats sewn from quality white material need to be whitened with white shoe polish before every parade.  They should be machine washed to remove the buildup of old polish being careful not to shrink or damage the spats. 

When ironing, there should be a cross-shaped set of creases on the back of each spat.  

Spats are properly worn with black shoes.  The front edge of the spat should just reach the toe cap on the shoe. The strap underneath the spat should be black.

Some spats are constructed with velcro; nonetheless, all buttons regardless of closure style should be securely sewn to the spat with white thread.