Fashions Wear Out the History Books

During World War I women sacrificed their corsets; the steel supports were needed to build battleships. Clothes immediately became more comfortable, and corsets – – tight-fitting, abdomen-hugging pieces used to shape the waist and hips – – were never worn again. Just as history has changed the way we live, it has changed what we wear.

Costumes of the 1870s and 1880s were tight and restricted movement, reflecting a woman’s place in society ; and, since their wardrobes were limited, much ornamentation was lavished on one gown.

Most pioneer women had at least one good Sunday dress.

Note: These period fashions are on display at the Bush House Museum, an 1878 Victorian mansion with original furnishings, gas lights, wallpaper, and 10 mantle fireplaces.

Bush House Museum,

600 Mission St. SE, Salem, OR 97302

Phone: 503-363-4714

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Bibliography:

Statesman Journal newspaper, March 1, 1991

This article originally appeared on the original Salem Online History site and has not been updated since 2006.