How the Suffragettes Dressed to Fight for Democratic Rights ✊👗

كوكو رمضاني

Discover how the suffragettes used fashion as a tool for activism! From elegant hats to symbolic sashes, their outfits were more than just clothing—they were statements of resistance and determination in the fight for women's democratic rights.  Learn the history behind their iconic style and how it helped make their message impossible to ignore.  #History #Women'sRights #Suffragettes #Activism #HistoricalFacts

Transcript

00:00The combination garment made of white cotton and with open legs was a simple and popular choice of undergarment.

00:07The open legs meant that it was possible to use the lavatory without undressing.

00:12Stockings came in many colours and designs, but black remained a practical choice for a working woman.

00:18The front fastening corset was worn over the combinations and didn't require any help to put on.

00:24It had two pairs of suspenders to support the stockings, which were clipped into place.

00:30The corset would be adjusted to fit by pulling the lacing cords at the back and tying them off at either the front or the back of the waist.

00:38A corset cover was worn, which added a layer of warmth and concealed the details of the corset, which might otherwise be visible.

00:48A petticoat completed the undergarments.

00:50The suffragettes were militant, but they wanted, through their dress, to give the impression of conformity,

00:57and were keen to avoid accusations of spinsterish masculinity.

01:02Delicate white blouses, known as waist shirts, embodied the Edwardian ideals of femininity,

01:07and white became a key symbolic colour of the movement.

01:10The shirtwaist had ties about the waist, to help keep it firmly tucked when active.

01:19Skirts were walking length, made from linen or wool, and usually had deep pockets.

01:26Fastenings were often concealed in the design, and closed at the side front.

01:30Hand-knitted cardigans were more readily affordable by hard-working young women than tailored wool coats and jackets.

01:40Boots were low-heeled and flat, and comfortable enough to wear not just when standing or marching,

01:45but when running too, as suffragettes occasionally needed to move quickly to get out of trouble.

01:50Some even trained in the self-defence art of jiu-jitsu, to protect themselves and others from assault.

01:58When required, suffragettes would carry with them the means of militancy,

02:02such as a small toffee hammer, perfect for breaking windows.

02:06Though if caught, they risked imprisonment, and often brutal treatment.

02:11The wearing of delicate feminine gloves helped belie the militancy of their intentions.

02:16Three colours were chosen to represent the movement.

02:20Purple for loyalty and dignity, white for purity, and green for hope.

02:26Though in America, gold replaced the colour green.

02:31Ribbons were sold in the three colours, and if one could afford it, themed accessories were available too.

02:37A hat pin helped keep the hat secure, but also offered a means of self-defence if required.

02:43Click the link below for a longer and more detailed version.

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