O.K. - Couldn't let this one go by! ;-)

Footwear: needs to be safe (steel toe, etc.) AND look professional - polished for regular days, Parade Gloss for "Special Events".

Fabric type: Poly is O.K. for psgr. train crew, but cotton is best for everything else. Not only does it help you lose some heat (once you're drenched on a hot day), but it simply burns. Poly melts, and is therefore a bit of a problem to remove...

Radios: Guilty as charged. I agree that hand signals "fit the show", and will confess to using the radio at least 50% of the time. Hopefully I'll get out of that habit this year. (Radios v. hand signals: good thread before; no need to repeat it now)

"The Show": While (IMHO) we need to present a period setting, it would help to throw in a bit about the clothing every once in a while. No need to get into thread counts - just a bit about RR traditions, etc. regarding uniforms.
And yes - every trip is a first time for the customers - keep it fresh, or take a break and come back with a positive attitude. Act your part - ticket agent, brakeman, trainman, conductor, fireman, engineer, mechanic, etc.


And last but not least...



Under the overalls: yes.


Best wishes for a safe and successful season!
Melanie