Tag Archives: coats

“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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Final Fitting, 1966

This photograph from the Chicago Tribune shows the sewing instructor Essie Cannon, on the right, checking the fit on a coat made by Mary Davis, on the left.  Cannon was a teacher at the Midwest Senior Center in Chicago where … Continue reading

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Armistice Day, 1922

Since today is November 11—the end date of World War One—I couldn’t help looking for photos marking the occasion.  The holiday was known as Armistice Day up until 1954, and the date still honors the end of that global conflict. … Continue reading

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Pose with Swagger Coat, early 1930s

This photo introduced me to a new fashion term.  Although some of the words are cut off, the writing on the back clearly reads, “I wanted you to see my new swagger coat.”  Quick online research revealed that the swagger … Continue reading

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The Journey to Internment

Calisphere has a large collection of photos by Dorothea Lange documenting the round up and deportation of Japanese Americans during the Second World War.  The most heart wrenching show individuals and families waiting for transport, many with confused and dazed … Continue reading

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Protesting in 1947

This wonderful photo appeared last week’s New York Times in an article about the the first big fight around increasing bus and subway fares in the city.  “Picketing a fare increase in front of City Hall in 1947,” the caption … Continue reading

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Gossiping on Geary Street near Union Square, 1947

It pays to have friends who are librarians.  Ever since I started this project on older women and fashion, I’ve had the help and encouragement of Becky Imamoto at the UC Irvine Library.  She’s ordered books and online collections for … Continue reading

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Labor Activist Pauline Newman, 1974

There’s a theme to my last few posts—the International Ladies Garment Workers’ Union. Not only is it an important topic for those interested in American clothing, but the photographs are wonderful. At the center of this photo is the diminutive … Continue reading

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