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Q&A About Men's Vintage Work Vests
What did working class men wear in the 1800s?
Working class men in the 1800s typically wore sturdy cotton or wool shirts, durable work trousers or overalls, work vests for storage and warmth, and heavy boots. Their clothing prioritized functionality and durability, with fabrics like canvas, denim, and duck cloth becoming popular for their resistance to wear and tear during physical labor.
Why did people wear vests in the 1800s?
People wore vests in the 1800s for both practical purposes and social convention. Practically, vests provided core warmth, convenient storage pockets, and a layer of protection for shirts, while socially, vests were considered an essential component of proper dress across all classes, with their style and fabric indicating one's occupation and social standing.
What occupations wore work vests during the 1800s?
During the 1800s, work vests were worn by numerous occupations including blacksmiths, carpenters, miners, cowboys, farmers, ranchers, railroad workers, and factory laborers. Tradesmen like butchers, bakers, and printers also commonly wore work vests, as did shopkeepers, bartenders, and livery workers, with each profession often having slight variations in vest style, pocket configuration, and fabric choice suited to their specific work requirements.
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