I chanced upon this wonderful photo in a search for polka dresses—a favorite theme of mine. You never know what you will find! There isn’t much of a backstory to the photo, but I imagine it was opening day at the DeBaliviere Restaurant and Waffle Shop. A quick search reveals that it was probably located in the DeBaliviere section of St. Louis, Missouri. The owner, in a suit, shakes hands with an older woman. Perhaps she was the manager of the new restaurant.
Who decided on the uniforms of the wait staff? The workers are all young women wearing knickers, white socks, white shoes, white shirts, and some kind of ribbon or bandana around the neck. I wonder what customers made of these outfits. In 1931, women in pants were mainly seen on hiking trails, bicycles or beaches. Perhaps the owner thought these bold get ups would bring in more customers.
By contrast, the manager’s look is on the conservative side. I imagine her hair is done up in a bun at the back. She’s kept her round grannie glasses, although new shapes were emerging. Although the polka dots are large, the pattern was beloved by the older set. The white lace around the collar only adds to the traditional look. The cut of the dress, however, is right up to the minute, with a waist line at her natural waist and a ruched piece above a fuller skirt. And take a look at her footwear—no sensible shoes for her!
Could he be the banker, she the owner?