Twice Told Tuesday - The Evolution Of Hygienic Dress

Twice Told Tuesday features a photography related article reprinted from
my collection of old photography books, magazines, and newspapers.

The more things change so the saying goes and it appears to be true for humor. Shades commences this Twice Told with a joke from 1894. Then we take a look at hygienic dress and it evolution. More clothing styles to help date those old photographs.

DISINTERESTED
SHE - "I hope it isn't my hundred thousand
that your after, George?"
MR. GRASPER - "Believe me, no darling.
I'd marry you if you had only ninety thousand.

~*~

THE EVOLUTION OF HYGIENIC DRESS
Spice Box
Demorest's Magazine
December 1894

Forty years ago every woman wore a crinoline; then arose one who caused a revolution by originating "a Bloomer costume."

It was too great a shock, and died a natural death.

Some little while ago the rebellion against fashion broke out again, and the Bloomer became modified and was called "the divided skirt." But the poor wearers were subjected to ridicule, and rushed to the other extreme in Grecian dress.

Which was very graceful and pretty, but it didn't suit the practical, matter-of-fact nineteenth century.

Next came the aesthetic dress, which held full sway until it was intolerably exaggerated, and the majority sought for some other attire.

Now we are more common sense in our views, and the costume which appeared absurb are, when put to a proper use, of the utmost advantage. What could be better than a Bloomer costume on a bicycle?

What could be neater or nicer than a tailor-made gown for the street or wet weather?

And should you incline towards aesthetic dress, or yearn for a Grecian costume, you may have all you desire; and, "most important of all," you will be in fashion.

Sources:

Unknown, "Joke." Demorest's Family Magazine, September 1896, 676.

Unknown, "Spice Box." Demorest's Family Magazine, December 1894, 146-148.