Suffragette Fashions

Hello and welcome to this historic edition of Fashion Friday. Today we will be sharing two looks of Suffragette Fashions. They include an example from the turn of the century as well as a classic look from 1920. Both are in celebration of the 100th anniversary of the passing of the 19th Amendment on August 18, 1920. This long earned victory granted some women the right to vote.

Suffragette Fashions

This is the third and final post covering Suffragette Fashions. Much of the history of the movement, including photographs, was covered in the Make A Suffragette Sash post.

Turn of the century undergarments was featured in the 1890’s Wrapper post.

The turn of the century look was inspired by both the British factory worker as well as this image of militant suffragette, Christabel Pankhurst.

The making of a pale green insertion lace blouse was featured in March..

Folkwear Walking Skirt

The skirt was made from the Folkwear walking skirt, pattern number 209. It comes in two lengths, street length, and mid-calf. It was a fantastic pattern. Everything went together very smoothly. Even a beginner could make it.

The fabric was antique wool that I had purchased at a French flea market a few years ago.

Many thanks to my daughter for wearing this thick wool in the sweltering sun!

As the fabric was a bit heavy I did opt to add two rows of tucks to the bottom hem to help support the flair of the skirt.

Many of the blouses of this time period are more “pigeon breasted” in appearance. But working-class girls could often not afford to waste fabric or run the risk of excess fabric getting caught in factory machinery.

The charming black wool felt boater hat is accented with a purple velvet ribbon and a small bouquet of flowers.

Ready To March

The sash features the colors worn by those in the United Kingdom.

Voting is a privilege that some women in other parts of the world are still not granted.

Many women were injured or died fighting for the cause.

They are to be admired for sure. I hope you will take the time to learn their stories.

August 18th, 1920

The second look was inspired by what the Suffragettes were wearing at the time the 19th Amendment was passed. It is extremely important to note that while many women were granted the right to vote many others were not. Some women of color, including indigenous women, were not able to vote until the Voters Right Act of 1965 was passed.

The shorter length of the Folkwear pattern was used in creating the white skirt. I used a heavy antique sheet found at an estate sale. The blouse was covered in a previous post.

I appreciated wearing the light, white fashions on a hot Texas afternoon.

The fetching hat was an antique found on eBay for $5.

You can find similar shoes on the American Duchess site.

Just call me Mrs. Banks!

I hope you have enjoyed these two Suffragette fashions. There will be many more that cover the years 1848-1920 at the Farmers Branch Historical Park celebration planned for November 24th.

Rock your vote!

Laura