Suits

Definition

Suits refer to a style of formal attire typically characterized by a matching jacket and trousers, often paired with a dress shirt and tie. In the context of Edwardian fashion, suits were pivotal in reflecting societal norms and ideals, particularly in how they emphasized the S-curve silhouette and the fashionable look of the Gibson Girl, symbolizing a blend of femininity and modernity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. During the Edwardian era, suits for men were characterized by long jackets and high lapels, while women's suits were designed to enhance the hourglass shape promoted by the S-curve silhouette.
2. The suit became a symbol of social status and professionalism, especially as more women began entering the workforce in various roles during this period.
3. Fabric choices for suits varied widely, with wool being the most popular for its durability and versatility, while lighter fabrics like linen were used in warmer weather.
4. Accessorizing suits with hats and gloves was common among both men and women during the Edwardian period, showcasing attention to detail and personal style.
5. Suits evolved over time, influenced by changing social norms and attitudes towards gender roles, leading to greater variety in styles and fits as society progressed.

Review Questions

• How did the design of suits during the Edwardian era reflect the social ideals associated with the S-curve silhouette?
  • The design of suits in the Edwardian era was closely tied to the S-curve silhouette, which emphasized an exaggerated hourglass figure. For women, tailored suits often featured cinched waists and flowing skirts that highlighted this shape, promoting an image of femininity combined with modernity. Men's suits also evolved to include longer jackets and structured shoulders that contributed to a polished appearance, reflecting the era's values regarding social status and professionalism.
• Discuss how the Gibson Girl influenced women’s fashion choices related to suits in the early 20th century.
  • The Gibson Girl had a profound impact on women's fashion choices, particularly regarding suits. As a symbol of beauty and independence, she inspired women to adopt more tailored looks that included suits designed to showcase their curves while allowing for mobility. This led to an increase in popularity for women's suits that embodied both style and practicality, making them appropriate for various social settings and professional environments. The Gibson Girl's image encouraged women to break away from traditional feminine attire, embracing a more modern wardrobe that included well-fitted suits.
• Evaluate the significance of tailoring in the evolution of suits during the Edwardian era and its implications for gender roles.
  • Tailoring played a critical role in the evolution of suits during the Edwardian era, marking a shift in how clothing was designed and perceived across genders. The precision involved in tailoring allowed for garments that accentuated or minimized body shapes according to societal expectations. For men, tailored suits communicated authority and professionalism, while for women, expertly crafted suits offered empowerment through mobility without sacrificing elegance. This evolution indicated changing gender roles, as women began to seek fashion that represented their growing independence and place in public life, ultimately reshaping societal perceptions around both men's and women's attire.

Related terms

S-curve Silhouette: A fashionable body shape popular in the Edwardian era, defined by a curvy figure achieved through the use of corsets and tailored garments.

Gibson Girl:

An idealized American female figure from the early 20th century, representing beauty and independence, often depicted wearing stylish clothing that showcased the S-curve silhouette.

Tailoring: The craft of designing and creating fitted clothing, particularly suits, which involves precise measurements and alterations for a polished appearance.