Women's Patriotic Clothing

[pinkweeds]

As many may be aware, British women often showed their patriotism by wearing red dresses which was of course inspired by the color of the militia uniform. I wonder if anyone is aware of any American fashions that were inspired by this patriotic time in our country as the 1812 bicentennial draws nearer and such articles would be appropriate.

[Izodiea]

I remember recently seeing a picture of a pin on apron (victorian??) made to look like a flag. I had remembered it being on the V&A website, but couldn't find it when I checked a minute ago

[ladyirish]

Patriotic pinner aprons were popular during the American Civil War. I couldn't tell you about anything similar for this era though. Good question! We're getting geared up for the bicentennial too! What a great question!

[dawnluckham]

Just my “take” on it from the other side of the border:

This certainly could use more research…

During 1812 Great Britain had been at war with Napoleon for quite some time. This was part of the reason Henry Clay and the “War Hawks” thought that the timing was just right for an invasion of Canada. There were a lot of people in the U.S. who disagreed with the idea.

Given these circumstances, it may have been that while “patriotic” colours and military influences might naturally seep into French and English fashion, I’m not sure that all the people in The States were in full support of the invasion of Canada. This type of support (wearing clothing that stated your political position) just might not have been popular for this particular war.

I’m happy to be proven wrong on this one… but this is a “best guess”.

Keep in mind that “red, white and blue” are also the colours of the Union Jack.

Edit to add - Something like a military inspired blue spencer might be "the thing"..

[The Major]

I remember reading (cannot remember exactly where off hand, but if I find it I'll let you know) that some ladies in the U.S. would have a spencer that was the color and even trim of their husband or betrothed's regiment. But I don't recall the same patriotic clothing as the English and French did with the national colors. Doesn't mean they didn't, I'm just not familiar with it if they did.