Fashion In The Nineteenth Century

Fashion has always been a clear marker for change in history. In the nineteenth century, many change occurred: new means of transportations, changing work environment and new societal demeanour could be observed in New York City. The advent of ready-made clothing brought the different classes closer to one another and this change in style reflected the changing mores of society concerning the place of women in the city. The growing industry, opening of shopping malls and the subsequent changing habits helped define the “new woman” as their position in society and toward the men shifted.
For starters fashion had always been a means to show one’s status to others, with the apparition of shopping malls and the rising of ready-made clothing industry people could now purchase …show more content…
For example, in the 1890’s trough 1920’s women began to meet in circles to discuss of current affairs and the possible actions that could be taken. One of the most prominent conversation groups was held by Mabel Dodge, where multiple women from different background assembled and discussed of society’s problems. Women began to have radicalized ideas and vindicate for equality has they became aware of others struggles. The “new women” took actions through art as well as public demonstrations; they would shock the public by exposing controversial pieces of art advocating the importance of birth control or the unreasonable working conditions of factories. They brought a sense of “modernity” to the city has they endeavoured to change the outdated habits of its residents. Of course, women kept in touch with the on-going fashion trends has they protested in the streets in order to remind people that they were first and foremost respectable ladies. No amount of radicalism could stop a woman from being