Write an informational essay about the relationship between clothing styles and developments in clothing creation throughout history. Your essay must be based on ideas, concepts, and information from the “Clothing Over Time” passage set.
Be sure to include:
A thesis statement
Organized paragraph structuring
Text evidence from the sources provided
Using at least 3 sources provided
Source 1: Ready-Made Clothing
by National Institute of Standards and Technology
Before the American Civil War, ready-made apparel existed but its variety was limited. Coats, jackets and undergarments were only available in predetermined sizes. Most clothing was made by tailors,
by individuals, or by their family members at home. The Civil War was a pivotal event in the historical development of men’s ready-made clothing. At the outset of the Civil War, most uniforms were custom-made in workers’ homes under government contract. As the war continued, however, manufacturers started to build factories that could quickly and efficiently meet the growing demands of the military. These factories were able to make uniforms for a fraction of the cost of home sewers. Mass-producing uniforms necessitated the development of standard sizes. Measurements taken of soldiers revealed that certain sets of measurements tended to recur with predictable regularity. There were certain ratios of shoulder to waist measurements that occurred more frequently than others. After the war, these measurements were used to create the first commercial sizing scales for men. Today these ratios persist in names of fits and cuts in men’s suits, shirts, and denim jeans. A men’s store might offer a slim fit, a classic fit and a relaxed fit to suit various tastes and body types.
The mass production of women’s clothing developed more slowly. Women’s outfits were generally custom-made well into the 1920s. At that point a number of factors came together to contribute to the success of the women’s ready-made apparel industry. New industrial production techniques were developed, driving supply, and the advertising industry rose in prominence, driving sales. Most importantly, demand was created in the form of the rising urban professional class. Single and married women found themselves in new relationships to domestic life, work life, and fashion. Many spent less time in the home and all associated hand-made clothes with an older, more rural lifestyle. They no longer shopped at the town’s general store for bolts of calico fabric. Chain stores and mail order catalogs offered multiple ways to access the new clothes. Ready-made articles of clothing were portrayed as modern and fashionable, if not sturdy. The new consumer industries were rapidly redefining the way Americans viewed mass-manufactured goods. The purchase of mass-produced clothing was sometimes seen as a loss of individuality. However, American women began to accept ready-made merchandise as convenient and affordable. They were up-to-date fashion items that could be easily replaced as styles changed. Making clothes more quickly meant styles did change more frequently as well. It took far less time for a designer to sketch a pattern and have an item made than ever before.
However, the new ready-made clothing often fit poorly. A tailor might take two dozen measurements when making a men’s suit. For example, determining the distance from the base of the neck to the middle of the shoulders is critical for an exact fit. Women’s clothes are less straightforward and early male pattern makers did not know where to begin. Each manufacturer created its own unique and sometimes arbitrary sizing system. These systems were based on inaccurate body data or no body data at all. Different manufacturers frequently labeled garments of widely different dimensions the same size. This situation resulted in additional expenses for alterations. It also meant large volumes
Source 2: Advancements in Modern Clothing
by Anthony Kazanjian
Rapid advancements in computer technology during the late 20th and early 21st centuries have given today’s fashion designers unprecedented freedom to express their creativity. In previous generations, garments were designed by hand, using pencil sketches and traditional math-based pattern sizing. Today, designers often have computer-aided design (CAD) software at their disposal to determine textile weaves and sizing designs. CAD software allows them to view designs of clothing on virtual models of various shapes and sizes. This makes for a much more efficient garment design process, saving companies both time and resources that would have otherwise been spent on manually creating and adjusting prototypes.
The impact of CAD software on everyday clothing is becoming more prevalent as the software is linked to 3-D printing technology. While other industries, such as aerospace or architecture, have been using this technology for decades, it has now started to spread to the world of fashion. Designers have been experimenting with 3-D printed apparel, and this could revolutionize the experience of buying clothes for the average consumer. For example, a swimwear company can now offer custom-designed bathing suits on its website, using nylon and a 3-D printer to print out each order to a customer’s body shape and measurements. In addition to the use of 3-D printers by industry specialists, machines for home printing are becoming more and more affordable. If this trend continues, it will allow consumers to print out objects like bracelets in a matter of minutes from the comfort of their homes. Though it may be a while before anyone can print out his or her own complete wardrobe, the ability to create customized clothing is becoming more of a reality as technology evolves. One day, we may all be wearing our own one-of-a-kind, perfectly tailored clothes.
Source 3: History of Tailoring
By Luxtailor Jan 19, 2022The artistry of tailoring is all together defined by the art of designing, cutting, fitting and finishing clothes.
The profession of tailoring dates back to the early Middle Ages in European towns where linen armorers would skillfully fit men with padded linen undergarments used to protect the interior of chain mail and plated armor. During that time, men’s clothing consisted of tunics and hosiery.
In the 1500 and 1600s, tailors were obliged to create a variety of outer wear garments that included capes, cloaks and coats. They used stiff linen and canvas for interlining to give clothing shapes and even used whalebone for stiffer elements such as corsets until the 19th century.
Luxury garments were lined with finer quality material such as fur or satin at the time. Tailors in the 1800s would create trousers, waistcoats and sportswear by that time. Wool was a staple fabric in menswear which replaced the use of silks and velvet fabrics used in previous centuries. Wool to this day is a staple fabric for many custom suits for both menswear and womenswear.
The relationship between clothing styles and developments in clothing creation throughout history is a complex and interconnected one. Over time, advancements in technology, changes in societal attitudes, and shifts in fashion trends have influenced the way clothing is designed, produced, and worn. This essay will explore the evolution of clothing creation, focusing on the impact of ready-made clothing, advancements in modern clothing technology, and the history of tailoring.
Before the American Civil War, most clothing was made by tailors or individuals at home. Ready-made apparel existed, but its variety was limited, and garments were only available in predetermined sizes (National Institute of Standards and Technology). However, the Civil War became a turning point in the historical development of men's ready-made clothing. As the demand for uniforms grew, manufacturers started building factories that could mass-produce clothing at a fraction of the cost of home sewers. This led to the development of standard sizes based on soldiers' measurements (National Institute of Standards and Technology). These standard sizes persist today in the names of fits and cuts in men's suits, shirts, and jeans (National Institute of Standards and Technology). Similarly, the mass production of women's clothing developed more slowly, but factors such as new industrial production techniques, the rise of the advertising industry, and the changing roles of women in society contributed to the success of the women's ready-made apparel industry (National Institute of Standards and Technology).
Advancements in modern clothing technology have had a significant impact on the relationship between clothing styles and developments in clothing creation. Computer-aided design (CAD) software allows fashion designers to express their creativity and view designs on virtual models of various shapes and sizes (Anthony Kazanjian). This software has revolutionized the garment design process, making it more efficient and saving time and resources that would have been spent on manual creation and adjustment of prototypes (Anthony Kazanjian). Moreover, the emergence of 3-D printing technology is starting to impact everyday clothing. Designers can experiment with 3-D printed apparel, and companies can offer custom-designed clothing based on a customer's body shape and measurements (Anthony Kazanjian). Although widespread use of 3-D printing for clothing production may still be a ways off, the ability to create customized clothing is becoming more feasible as technology evolves (Anthony Kazanjian).
Additionally, the history of tailoring showcases the artistry and evolution of clothing creation. Tailoring dates back to the early Middle Ages, where tailors would skillfully fit men with padded linen undergarments used to protect armor (Luxtailor). Over time, tailors expanded their expertise to include creating outerwear garments such as capes, cloaks, and coats (Luxtailor). They used various materials, including stiff linen, canvas, and even whalebone, to give garments shape (Luxtailor). Luxury garments were often lined with finer materials like fur or satin, emphasizing the skill and craftsmanship involved in tailoring (Luxtailor). In the 1800s, tailors began creating trousers, waistcoats, and sportswear, with wool becoming a staple fabric in menswear (Luxtailor).
In conclusion, the relationship between clothing styles and developments in clothing creation has evolved throughout history. The introduction of ready-made clothing, advancements in modern clothing technology, and the artistry of tailoring have all played crucial roles in shaping how clothing is designed, produced, and worn. From the standardization of sizes in men's ready-made clothing to the use of CAD software and 3-D printing technology in modern fashion, these developments have influenced the availability, customization, and convenience of clothing. Understanding the historical and technological factors contributing to clothing creation allows us to appreciate the evolution of fashion and its impact on our everyday lives.
Title: The Evolution of Clothing Styles and the Development of Clothing Creation throughout History
Thesis Statement: The relationship between clothing styles and developments in clothing creation has been shaped by historical events, technological advancements, and changing social dynamics. By examining the impact of the American Civil War on the mass production of men's clothing, the rise of the women's ready-made apparel industry in the 1920s, and the advancements in modern clothing design through computer technology, we can appreciate the evolution of clothing styles and the methods of clothing creation throughout history.
Introduction:
Throughout history, clothing styles have played a significant role in reflecting cultural norms, social status, and individual expression. The development of clothing creation methods has been influenced by various factors, including societal changes, technological advancements, and economic demands. This essay will explore the relationship between clothing styles and developments in clothing creation by analyzing information from three sources: "Ready-Made Clothing" by the National Institute of Standards and Technology, "Advancements in Modern Clothing" by Anthony Kazanjian, and "History of Tailoring" by Luxtailor.
Paragraph 1: The Impact of the American Civil War on Mass Production of Men's Clothing
During the American Civil War, the demand for uniforms led to the establishment of factories that could efficiently produce clothing on a large scale. These factories relied on standard sizing, which was determined based on measurements taken from soldiers. According to the National Institute of Standards and Technology, this development in men's ready-made clothing created the foundation for the commercial sizing scales used in men's suits, shirts, and jeans today. The availability of different fits and cuts catered to various body types and fashion preferences.
Paragraph 2: The Rise of the Women's Ready-Made Apparel Industry in the 1920s
Until the 1920s, women's clothing was primarily custom-made. However, a confluence of factors, as described in the National Institute of Standards and Technology's source, led to the success of the women's ready-made apparel industry. New industrial production techniques, the rise of the advertising industry, and the changing roles of women in society contributed to the demand for convenient and affordable clothing. With the advent of chain stores and mail-order catalogs, women embraced ready-made clothing as modern and fashionable. The ability to mass-produce clothing quickly also allowed for frequent changes in styles, reflecting the evolving trends of the time.
Paragraph 3: Advancements in Modern Clothing Design through Computer Technology
The advancements in computer technology during the late 20th and early 21st centuries have revolutionized the design process for clothing. As explained by Anthony Kazanjian, fashion designers now have access to computer-aided design (CAD) software, which enables them to visualize clothing designs on virtual models of various shapes and sizes. This technology has not only expedited the design process but also saved time and resources that would have been spent on manual prototyping. The integration of CAD software with 3-D printing technology also opens up possibilities for custom-designed clothing, allowing for a more personalized and tailored experience for consumers.
Conclusion:
The relationship between clothing styles and developments in clothing creation is a dynamic one, constantly evolving in response to historical events, technological advancements, and societal changes. From the mass production of men's clothing during the American Civil War to the rise of the women's ready-made apparel industry in the 1920s, and the advancements in modern clothing design through computer technology, each era has played a role in shaping the way we create and wear clothing. By understanding the historical context and technological advancements behind clothing styles, we can appreciate the evolution and significance of fashion throughout history.
Thesis Statement: Throughout history, the relationship between clothing styles and developments in clothing creation has undergone significant changes. From the establishment of standardized sizes in men's clothing during the American Civil War to the rise of ready-made women's apparel in the 1920s, and the advent of computer-aided design (CAD) software and 3-D printing technology in modern times, the evolution of clothing creation has shaped the way people dress and express their individuality.
Introduction:
Clothing has always played a vital role in human society, reflecting cultural norms, social status, and personal identity. As developments in technology and manufacturing processes have occurred throughout history, clothing styles and the way garments are created have also evolved. This essay will explore three pivotal moments in the relationship between clothing styles and the development of clothing creation: the establishment of standardized sizes in men's clothing during the American Civil War, the rise of ready-made women's apparel in the 1920s, and the advancements in modern clothing through the use of CAD software and 3-D printing technology.
Body Paragraph 1: Standardized Sizes in Men's Clothing during the American Civil War
During the American Civil War, the demand for uniforms led to the establishment of standardized sizes in men's clothing. Before the war, most clothing was custom-made, tailored by individuals or their family members at home (Source 1). However, as the war continued, the need for mass-produced uniforms arose. Factories were built to meet the growing demand, leading to the development of standard sizes based on soldiers' measurements (Source 1). This introduced a new era of ready-made clothing with commercial sizing scales for men, which still persist today (Source 1). The availability of different fits and cuts in men's suits, shirts, and jeans catered to various tastes and body types.
Body Paragraph 2: Rise of Ready-Made Women's Apparel in the 1920s
In the 1920s, the rise of ready-made women's apparel revolutionized the fashion industry. Several factors contributed to its success, including new industrial production techniques, the advertising industry's emergence, and the changing role of women in society (Source 1). The rising urban professional class sought more convenient and affordable clothing options, distancing themselves from hand-made garments associated with a rural lifestyle (Source 1). Chain stores and mail-order catalogs provided access to ready-made clothing, which was marketed as modern, fashionable, and easily replaceable as styles changed (Source 1). The mass production of women's clothing allowed for faster design iterations, enabling styles to change more frequently (Source 1).
Body Paragraph 3: Advancements in Modern Clothing through CAD Software and 3-D Printing Technology
In the modern era, advancements in computer technology have played a significant role in clothing creation. CAD software has given designers unprecedented freedom to express their creativity by using virtual models to view clothing designs on various shapes and sizes (Source 2). This has made the design process more efficient, saving time and resources (Source 2). Furthermore, CAD software linked with 3-D printing technology has started to make its mark in the fashion industry (Source 2). Designers have experimented with 3-D printed apparel, allowing for customization based on individual body shapes and measurements (Source 2). While the ability to print an entire wardrobe may still be a future possibility, the evolution of technology is bringing personalized clothing closer to reality (Source 2).
Conclusion:
Throughout history, the relationship between clothing styles and developments in clothing creation has continually evolved. From the establishment of standardized sizes in men's clothing during the American Civil War to the rise of ready-made women's apparel in the 1920s, and the advancements in modern clothing through CAD software and 3-D printing technology, clothing creation has adapted to changing social, cultural, and technological contexts. These developments have allowed for greater convenience, affordability, and individuality in clothing choices, shaping the way people express themselves and reflecting the ongoing progression of human creativity and innovation in the fashion industry.