Uploaded September 2023 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
What wins : sunblock, or The Victorians etiquette about modesty? There's so much more to Victorian modesty than we've been taught, and a lot of it-- like the thing about table leg covers-- is a myth. Let's do some fashion history and bust those Victorian modesty myths, because there's a shocking amount we can learn from their attitudes.
The history we've been taught emphasizes Victorian values as being buttoned-up. While the Victorians etiquette was strict compared to modern or even 20th century vintage modest outfits . . . modesty in Victorian fashion is not what you think! Contrary to popular belief, Victorian morals did not require table legs to be covered for the sake of modesty. But when it comes to how Victorian modesty did actually work, there's a surprisingly sensible aspect to Victorian era fashion's dress code, and thee's a lot modern school dress codes could learn from it rather than clutching pearls over historical myths. Historical accuracy in Victorian fashion does call for modest high collars and long sleeves . . . in place of sunscreen! No one had invented sun block in the 19th century, and wearing clothes in place of sunblock was the best they could do. But this didn't stop the Victorians wearing low necklines and bare arms in the evening when SPF wasn't necessary.
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Follow me on IG for more stitchy business : @missSnappyDragon
For business inquiries, send an e-mail to : SnappyDragon at TBHonestSocial dot Com
I do not take personal costume/sewing or research commissions.
Want to send me letters? Send mail to PO Box 11573, Oakland CA, 94611! Letters and cards only please 💚
What wins : sunblock, or The Victorians etiquette about modesty? There's so much more to Victorian modesty than we've been taught, and a lot of it-- like the thing about table leg covers-- is a myth. Let's do some fashion history and bust those Victorian modesty myths, because there's a shocking amount we can learn from their attitudes.
The history we've been taught emphasizes Victorian values as being buttoned-up. While the Victorians etiquette was strict compared to modern or even 20th century vintage modest outfits . . . modesty in Victorian fashion is not what you think! Contrary to popular belief, Victorian morals did not require table legs to be covered for the sake of modesty. But when it comes to how Victorian modesty did actually work, there's a surprisingly sensible aspect to Victorian era fashion's dress code, and thee's a lot modern school dress codes could learn from it rather than clutching pearls over historical myths. Historical accuracy in Victorian fashion does call for modest high collars and long sleeves . . . in place of sunscreen! No one had invented sun block in the 19th century, and wearing clothes in place of sunblock was the best they could do. But this didn't stop the Victorians wearing low necklines and bare arms in the evening when SPF wasn't necessary.
Join my Patreon for behind-the-scenes updates, pattern diagrams, research lists, monthly video chats, and more! patreon.com/snappydragonstudios
Or, you can buy me some Ko-Fi : ko-fi.com/snappydragon
Follow me on IG for more stitchy business : @missSnappyDragon
For business inquiries, send an e-mail to : SnappyDragon at TBHonestSocial dot Com
I do not take personal costume/sewing or research commissions.
Want to send me letters? Send mail to PO Box 11573, Oakland CA, 94611! Letters and cards only please 💚
