The photo of the distinguished lady is hubby’s great grandma, circa 1900. She married into a family of haberdashers:
Three things are remarkable to me about this photo, unearthed in the family trunk of long-forgotten stories:
First – LOOK – just LOOK at the hat. I’ve discovered, after a bit of vintage sleuthing, that over-the-top ornamentation using fake fruit and flowers was au courant and high fashion at the turn of the last century. In addition to the hat looking uncomfortable, I’m fairly certain great granny could’ve been airborne, should a strong breeze arrive. You know – Mary Poppins style.
Second – While the tailoring on the jacket and handiwork looks like the refined work of a master, the whole ensemble – jacket, gloves and high-necked blouse scream discomfort. Great grandma’s visage, though? She looks proud and proper. Not a hint of “I can’t wait to get out of this to hop into something comfy” (which in truth, was probably an equally uncomfortable lumpy cotton, full-skirted ‘day dress’.)
Third and last – and most important. As I rummaged through the trunk, I learned this hat pic was part of an ad campaign for the local newspaper – promoting the small-town millinery and haberdashery store, which her newlywed husband owned. Excavating the tidbits uncovered more fun and fab family history. Despite great granny’s time and place, she pushed her new husband to go beyond the traditional ‘furnishings’ for men only and branch out to offer equally well-made goods for women. And she was the first model and spokesperson. 😊
What’s not to love? Go, Great Granny, Go!
-Vicki ❤
Victoria Ponders... 
How fun is this?! I didn’t even look at the outfit to begin with, because the hat demanded all of my attention. 😄 Once I did look though, I agree. The outfit looks classy, but itchy. Definitely high style all the way though, for the times. And a very cool story. 🤍
P. S. I’ve been thinking about doing a post on my grandpa, so reading this gave me a little nudge in that direction.
P. P. S. I have to tell you, I got the giggles again yesterday, thinking about your “tooter” story. 😆💨
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LOL — I know! The best jokes are the ones we tell on ourselves, right?! xo! ❤
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Oh — and YES – please do write about your grandpa. Love that you’re feeling inspired. 😉
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🙂 Your hubby’s great mother certainly knew how to pose for a picture.
And, from the looks of things, she wore that magnificent-looking hat of hers proudly.
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I think you’re right – thanks, Renard! 😉
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🙂 You are welcome, Victoria.
Do enjoy the rest of your day!
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You too! 😉
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Go, Granny, Go, indeed!! How awesome!
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Thx, Wynne! 😉
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I laughed because I pictured her a la Mary Poppins.
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I know, right?! It was the FIRST thing that came to mind when I found the pic! Thanks for laughing along with me. xo!
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