I’m a bit under the weather today, so I figured I should post another set of images in the “Keeping Warm” series.
Here’s two pages of catalog images from 1937-1938 showing coats to be worn in the rain, and outfits for play in the snow.
I find the fabric descriptions pretty fascinating. Rubberized fabrics like silk crepe de chine or cotton tweed, all rubber, or cotton gaberdine or whipcord- which were both supposed to be water repellent on their own. Also notice the sensible headwear, umbrellas, and rubber overshoes (which are made of rubber and hollow in the heel so that you can slip your regular footwear inside. I think they should make a comeback!).
This image shows darling snow wear! I admit I have a love for the vintage ski jackets- but I’d rather wear them in regular life than in ski and snow sports. I think they’d look pretty cute even with modern jeans! I personally think ski and snow wear has come a long way since the 1930s. Although I’ve never tried it in the snow myself, it’s hard to imagine these “water repellant” styles keeping you dry, if you spend as much time as I do falling down or sitting in snow ;) These are all mentioned to be lined in cotton Kasha. I have not personally ever run across this fabric. If anyone knows what the modern equivalent is, or if it’s still available, please be sure to let us know!
Wishing you a warm weekend,
Lauren
Deanna
February 2, 2013 at 2:01 pm (11 years ago)They are all so stylish! I’d like to look that good when it’s gloomy and wet out. And I think I’d spend most of my time falling down if I tried skiing, too. :-)
Stephanie
February 2, 2013 at 8:11 pm (11 years ago)Kasha is flannel backed satin lining. I’ve used it in coat linings and for my 30s style pjs. Jo Ann Fabrics carries flannel backed satin during the winter.
Lisa
February 3, 2013 at 3:43 pm (11 years ago)How funny! My rain coat actually looks almost exactly like the “rubberized cotton tweed” one in the lower left corner. Though I have to say it definitely cost more than $1.98. Thanks for a lovely inspiration post.
Jill
February 3, 2013 at 5:53 pm (11 years ago)Ohhhh, I love the scotty cape coat. Yes, PLEASE!
Dea-chan
February 5, 2013 at 1:08 pm (11 years ago)Oh good, someone else mentioned the Kasha. I came across it on Gertie’s blog when she was doing her coat along. So it’s still around!
Sandy
February 8, 2013 at 12:40 pm (11 years ago)Second-from-left in top row reminds me of an academic robe or “graduation gown”! I definitely want the Scotty coat, but then I’ve wanted a proper Sherlock Homes Inverness-cloak for years . . . .
Pure wool, tightly woven and felted, will actually keep you quite dry, unless you actually fall THROUGH the ice. Even then, it keeps insulating. Used to be the only fiber that would continue to insulate when wet, back when the alternatives were down or Dacron. (Dacron stuffing used in sleeping bags does not. Personal Experience.) It may still be the only one – I’ll take it over any artificial fiber yet invented, anyway.