The 1930's: "The Great Depression"
Many
of the public works projects built during
his administration to put men back to work are iconic strutures today like Hoover Dam, the Golden Gate Bridge,
Red Rocks Park and Ampitheatre, and thousands of trails and scenic overlooks we enjoy today.
While
some women worked in secretarial, nursing, teaching, domestic, and food service positions,
most steadfastly were the anchor in the home and provided nurturing comfort and support
to their husband and children. This was reflected in women's dress which was sophisticated,
elegant, and decorated with small-scale feminine details. A woman's hat was her most prized accessory
and it was tilted above the right eye in a coyishly charming manner.
Vionnet's
bias cut was all the rage. It was apparent in the long, calf-length
skirts of the period as well as the low-back, body-conscious evening
gowns which were stunningly svelte. Schiaparelli embraced the Surrealist artists and incorporated quirky details into her
designs. She influenced a new direction in fashion when she introduced
sharply tailored jackets with shoulder pads.
WWII
began in Europe just as the decade was ending. The
U.S. would not enter for two more years. They were
enjoying a much improved economy and were out and
about playing miniature golf, dancing to Swing jazz,
and going to the theater to see their favorite movies
stars. It was a Golden Age for Hollywood with spectacular Busby Berkeley musicals, racy pre-Code films,
the era of Mae West and Jean Harlow, and the fairytale romance of Carole Lombard and Clark Gable.
Hollywood and the silver screen played a big role in helping
people escape to an imaginary world of wealth, glamour, and luxury.