Tag Archives: hats/headcoverings

“Five Babushkas,” 1970s. A Photo by Rod Bradley

I’m slowly forgetting all the Russian I learned in my career as a historian of the Soviet Union. However, I do remember that the proper plural of the word babushka (grandmother) is babushki.  I suppose I should be glad that … Continue reading

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A Clutch Coat in the Early 1920s

I’ve never understood clutch coats.  They are meant to be open at the neck, and sometimes you even have to hold them closed with your hand if no other fastener is provided.  But don’t you get cold around the neck, … Continue reading

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Statement Sleeves, ca. 1922

Big sleeves are in style these days.  However, even the generous sleeves of today are no match for this creation.  It looks almost like a kimono sleeve.  Note the light and shadow around her top arm, though.  Is the sleeve … Continue reading

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Thanksgiving Travel, 1951

The caption for this photo reads: “92-year-old great grandmother Mrs. C. C. Adams of Hooker, Oklahoma, reversed the old saying ‘over the hills to grandma’s house’ when she decided to take her first flight via TWA Skycoach to greet part … Continue reading

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Hats of Different Nations, 1946

More hats! Featured in the Chicago Sun Times in November 1946, this photo shows an election polling site at a hat shop on Rush St. in downtown Chicago. The owner, Mrs. Annette Conkey, took advantage of the occasion to show … Continue reading

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A Trio in Hats, 1910s

“Freddy seems to have some misgivings, but my expression is certainly hopeful,” it reads on the front of this photo post card.  I’m thinking that Freddy is the one in the striped suit in the front.  The writer must be … Continue reading

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Labor Day Race, 1917

I thought it might be hard to find photos of women on Labor Day doing anything but dishing up potato salad, but I was wrong.  The Digital Pubic Library of America, one of my favorite sources, had many pictures of … Continue reading

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At the Beach, 1940s

Since Labor Day is fast approaching, the official end to summer in the US, I thought I needed at least one more beach photo.  This couple certainly looks to be enjoying the sun, especially the man with his sun glasses … Continue reading

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At the Atlantic City Boardwalk, 1920s

I’ve never been to Atlantic City, so the distinctive features of its boardwalk are unknown to me.  However, my eBay dealer recognized them right away—the wicker push carts and the big Heisey’s Glassware sign in the background.  This older couple … Continue reading

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At the Beach, 1930s

Since summer has officially arrived, it’s time to take a look at older women in the swim. Are these two women wearing skirted bathing suits?  Or do they have on short play dresses, designed for fun and sun but not … Continue reading

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