Clothing and Fashion in Southern History: A Journey Through Time

Clothing and fashion have always played a significant role in shaping the culture and identity of the American South. From the days of the early settlers to the Civil War and beyond, the way people dressed reflected their social class, occupation, and personal style.

Clothing and Fashion in Southern History

by Dale Merrill

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3426 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	164 pages
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled

FREE

In her book, Clothing and Fashion in Southern History, author Sarah Gordon explores the fascinating history of Southern fashion from the colonial period to the present day. Drawing on a wealth of archival research and stunning illustrations, Gordon brings to life the clothing and fashion of the South's most iconic figures and ordinary citizens alike.

The Colonial South

The clothing worn by the early settlers in the Southern colonies was largely influenced by the fashions of England and France. However, as the colonies grew and developed their own unique cultures, so too did their clothing.

Women in the colonial South often wore dresses made of linen or cotton, with simple bodices and full skirts. They also wore petticoats and aprons to protect their clothing from dirt and wear. Men typically wore shirts, breeches, and waistcoats made of wool or linen. They also wore hats and shoes to protect themselves from the elements.

The Antebellum South

The antebellum South was a time of great prosperity and opulence, and this was reflected in the clothing and fashion of the period. Women's dresses became more elaborate, with full skirts, tight bodices, and intricate trimmings. They also began to wear more jewelry and accessories. Men's clothing also became more formal, with tailored suits and coats becoming the standard.

One of the most iconic fashion items of the antebellum South was the hoop skirt. This large, bell-shaped skirt was worn by women to create a fashionable silhouette. Hoop skirts were often made of silk or satin, and they were often decorated with ribbons, lace, and other embellishments.

The Civil War

The Civil War had a profound impact on clothing and fashion in the South. With the war effort taking precedence, people had less time and resources to devote to their appearance. As a result, clothing became more simple and utilitarian.

Women's dresses became shorter and simpler, and they were often made of less expensive materials. Men's clothing also became more practical, with soldiers wearing uniforms made of sturdy wool or cotton.

The Reconstruction Era

After the Civil War, the South underwent a period of reconstruction. This was a time of great economic and social change, and it was also reflected in the clothing and fashion of the period.

Women's dresses began to become more fashionable again, and they were often made of new materials such as silk and velvet. Men's clothing also became more formal, and they began to wear suits and ties more often.

The 20th Century

The 20th century saw a number of changes in clothing and fashion in the South. The rise of industrialization led to the mass production of clothing, which made it more affordable for people to buy new clothes. This led to a more casual approach to dressing, and people began to wear more comfortable and practical clothes.

The South also saw the rise of a new generation of fashion designers, who began to create clothing that was both stylish and comfortable. Designers such as Lilly Pulitzer and Bill Blass became known for their colorful and preppy designs, which were popular with Southern women of all ages.

Clothing and Fashion in Southern History is a fascinating and informative book that explores the rich history of fashion in the American South. With its stunning illustrations and engaging narrative, Gordon's book is a must-read for history buffs and fashion enthusiasts alike.

If you are interested in learning more about the history of clothing and fashion in the South, I highly recommend reading Clothing and Fashion in Southern History by Sarah Gordon. You can find this book at your local library or bookstore, or you can Free Download it online.

Clothing and Fashion in Southern History

by Dale Merrill

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3426 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	164 pages
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled

FREE