Speaker tells members what not to wear

Washington (CNN) - Just seconds after an emotional tribute to Arizona Democratic Rep Gabby Giffords in the House of Representatives Wednesday, House Speaker John Boehner - who got a little choked up in the moment - suddenly felt the need to remind members that there's a dress code on the House floor.

Boehner recovered his composure after embracing Giffords, who had just handed him her resignation letter. He looked around the chamber, and announced, "the chair would remind all members to be in proper business attire when you come to the floor of the House."

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It was unclear which House members Boehner was calling out, and the moment -broadcast live on CNN among other news outlets– felt a little jarring since it came immediately after a series of heartfelt tributes from several top House Democrats, and House Majority Leader Eric Cantor.

But Boehner's spokesman Michael Steel said the Speaker's remark "was a general reminder of the rules of the House."

It was the second time in a week that Boehner spotted members appearing a little too casual on the House floor.

On Monday night, Boehner ran through some of basic rules of decorum on the floor, including the one about proper dress. "Members should wear appropriate attire however brief their presence might be," the speaker said. And to the wardrobe offenders, Boehner said, "you know who you are."

Wednesday's session to say good bye to Giffords and vote on her border security bill was the last one for the week. Some members, including some Democrats who were about to head off to their annual retreat, were tieless. But reporters, and many members, know full well that Boehner - a dapper dresser himself - is quick to pass along his opinion about what not to wear.

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