Through the ages, dress has always been a signal of social status, and these two figures from 1850 America make the point. With arms-crossed determination, both are set to meet the challenges of the day.
The “Toff” on the left is every inch an example of the “dress for success” motto. On his head rests a top hat, roughly 8 inches tall and made from either beaver or black silk. He wears a stylish knee length frock (or morning) coat over a white shirt with a stiff collar and double cuffs. His white pants likely signal the summer season and are probably held up by suspenders rather than a belt. His footware appears to be a leather boot rather than a common lace-up shoe. He may be a successful businessman, a lawyer or a politician.
Meanwhile the “gent” on the left is clearly a day laborer in a central city and is dressed functionally to tackle the chores. Rather than donning a cloth cap, he is bare-headed. He wears a rough working man’s shirt buttoned at the neck and with no overcoat. His thick and loosely hanging pantaloons are held up by visible suspenders. They extend down to his boots, which are rugged, extend above the ankle, and are roomy enough for heavy wool socks. His wardrobe represents a sizable investment for him, with a shirt typically priced around $12 and a pair of trousers at $18, in relation to his typical wage of 80 cents per day.
Fashion: Toffs vs. Day Laborers
