Lady Lever hat fashion show
At the start of the period covered by the exhibition it was considered desirable for middle and upper-class women to have small hands and feet to show they were well-bred.
This was reflected in fashion and acce ssories – women would cram their hands into narrow gloves and their feet into tight-fitting shoes. As a result, many suffered foot deformities.
Shoes were not shaped for left or right feet until the mid-19th century, making them even more uncomfortable.
The term handbag seems to have first appeared as women gained greater independence and travelled more – they often carried personal items on a long journey. It was not until the 1920s that bags were seen as an essential fashion accessory.
THE Finishing Touch: Women’s Accessories 1830 – 1940 continues at the Lady Lever gallery until December 11.
A series of family events will be held during the exhibition run, including workshops for children and demonstrations by craft specialists.
