3 unusual accessories from the world of men's fashion of a bygone era (9 photos)
If you look at the fashion of past centuries through the eyes of a modern person accustomed to comfort and convenience, it becomes scary: how they, poor things, used to suffer in order to feel fashionable and stylish...
However, in our time there is also enough nonsense that will seem strange relics to descendants. But some interesting accessories have migrated to modern realities, albeit with reservations.
1. Sleeve Garters
If regular suspenders are not surprising, and their use is logical, then why were shirt sleeve garters needed?
A sleeve garter is a garter worn on a shirt sleeve. It became widespread, first of all, in the USA in the second half of the 19th century, when ready-made men's shirts were produced with one (very long) sleeve length. Sleeve garters allow you to adjust the length of the sleeves and prevent the cuffs from getting dirty during work, and also maintain the desired length when worn under a jacket.
Almost all men who worked with papers and ink wore garters for practical reasons until the second quarter of the 20th century. And wealthy aristocrats used gold chains simply to emphasize their image.
If a century ago garters were worn by all men regardless of profession (except for rich people or those who had custom-made shirts), today they are also found, but in the context of certain professions. They are worn by some musicians, casino croupiers, rodeo participants.
2. Green aviators
What is definitely always out of fashion is aviator glasses. This is an old, time-tested classic. Aviator sunglasses are an iconic style that were first used by military pilots in the 1930s and World War II before making their way into the mainstream. The style has seen many changes over the years, but one detail remains constant for many: the dark green lenses.
The choice of this color was justified because the green tint helps cut out blue light, which is a major problem for pilots flying above the cloud line. Additionally, green lenses reduce glare while improving sharpness and contrast.
Green tinted lenses provide extra contrast in the field of view that contains a lot of greenery, such as trees.
This is why they became popular in the past, when most airfields were grass.
However, today the most popular lens tint is gray, as it provides the most accurate perception of the world in natural colors.
The green lenses that are so often used in aviators now have a special name: G-15. They transmit only 15% of visible light and provide excellent contrast, which has made them the industry standard.
Subsequent versions of this lens include G-31 and even G-50, although the actual green lens in most sunglasses is G-15.
3. Tie ring
It looks rather gaudy, but at one time this thing was an obligatory part of the image of aristocrats and kings. The ring was especially respected by Edward VII and his son George V.
The accessory's task is prosaic - to fix the tie in place and not allow it to slip. Unlike the more laconic and less noticeable clips, rings were made ornate and noticeable, decorated with original patterns.
These days, rings are rare, mainly in Japan, where older residents maintain traditions. But the accessory can also be found among Europeans, who prefer to complement a classic look in this way.