Making Working Women's Costume

Synopsis

Making Working Women's Costume gives a unique account of the clothes of ordinary women from the mid-fifteenth century to the early twentieth century. As well as introducing the historical periods, it gives patterns for a range of typical garments that women of the poorer classes would have worn. Organized by century, it draws on historical sources and finds, paintings and photographs to recreate the clothes of these under-celebrated women.

Summary

Chapter 1:
The first chapter of the book "Making Working Women's Costume" introduces the concept of working women's costume and its evolution throughout history. It discusses how women's clothing has been influenced by social, economic, and technological factors, ultimately shaping the working women's attire we see today.

Real example:
During the 19th century, women were limited in their opportunities for paid work and were primarily relegated to domestic or factory jobs. As a result, their working attire consisted of long, heavy skirts and aprons, providing coverage and protection in their labor-intensive roles. This style of clothing also reflected the societal expectations of women being domestic caregivers rather than active participants in the labor force.

Chapter 2:
Chapter 2 delves into the different types of working women's costume, including uniforms, traditional dress, and professional attire. It explores the purposes and characteristics of each type and how they have evolved over time.

Real example:
In the early 20th century, factory and domestic workers were required to wear standardized uniforms as a symbol of their occupation. This practice was intended to create a sense of unity and to differentiate them from other societal classes. The uniforms were often simple and practical, made from durable materials to withstand the physical demands of the job.

Chapter 3:
The third chapter of the book focuses on the construction and design of working women's costume. It discusses the importance of functionality and practicality in creating clothing that can withstand the rigors of different occupations.

Real example:
In the 1920s, as more women entered the workforce and took on roles traditionally held by men, their clothing had to adapt to enable them to perform tasks previously deemed unsuitable for women. For example, women working in factories or on farms needed sturdy and practical clothing to carry out physical labor. As a result, overalls and jumpsuits became popular choices for their comfort and durability.

Chapter 4:
Chapter 4 examines the role of fashion in working women's costume. It discusses how trends and societal norms have influenced the style of working attire for women and how it continues to evolve.

Real example:
In the 1970s, the women's liberation movement sparked a shift in working women's attire. Women began to reject traditional dresses and skirts in favor of pantsuits and more masculine styles, signaling a desire for equal treatment in the workplace. This shift in fashion also represented a cultural shift towards gender equality and breaking down traditional gender roles.

Chapter 5:
The final chapter of the book delves into the production and economics of working women's costume. It explores the impact of globalization and mass production on the availability, cost, and quality of working attire for women.

Real example:
In recent years, the rise of fast fashion has led to a surplus of cheaply made clothing, including working women's attire. With a focus on low cost and mass production, the quality of these garments has often been compromised, leading to issues such as poor fit and short lifespan. This has prompted a movement towards ethical and sustainable fashion, with more emphasis being placed on quality and longevity rather than fast and cheap clothing.

In conclusion, "Making Working Women's Costume" takes a comprehensive look at the history, construction, design, fashion, and production of working women's attire. Using real-life examples, the book highlights the impact of societal changes and economic factors on the development and evolution of working women's costume throughout history. It serves as a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the significance and complexities of working women's fashion.