Ads in Shining Armor

Here's a little collection of fairty-tail and mediaeval themed ads from the 1903 Clothier and Furnisher, reflecting the popularity of visual motifs from the "age of chivalry" around the turn of the 19th century.   

On the Clock

So many clock puns!
This ad is from a 1903 issue of The Clothier and Furnisher.

Synchronized Suspender Fitness

This is a wacky little illustration from the 1903 Clothier and Furnisher. At first glance, we see a pair of young athletes doing a synchronized aerobic routine with stretchy suspenders...

...After a second look, though, I'm starting to think that they might each be standing in a different leg of a giant pair of pants, and hauling them up by the suspenders. Unfortunately the copy was too blurred to read, but I doubt it explains the illustration.  

The Max Factor

When one artist or illustrator gets famous, we often start to see work that is clearly inspired by their unique style. If this ad below is not a Maxfield Parrish, then it's some serious Maxfield Parrish fan-art!

Selling Fashion with Fashion History

Every now and again, one stumbles across an editorial in a modern fashion magazine, which departs from the usual contemporary styles, and instead celebrates a moment in fashion history. Apparently this sort of thing has been going on for a while, as illustrated by these 1903 ads from The Clothier and Furnisher.

Who Wants Better Pants?

When it comes to learning about historical attitude towards menswear, The Clothier and Furnisher is a truly amazing resource. The publication was first issued in 1872 and catered to virtually everyone in the menswear wholesale/retail industry, from industry leaders and traveling salesmen to window-dressers. 

Ever-trendy, the periodical spanned the hay-days of Art Nouveau, and Art Deco, and enthusiastically embraced each style as it emerged. The add above ran in a 1903 issue, and is boldly graphic, yet swimming in Parishesque Art Nouveau glory.

Nosey Joe: Stockings

"How was golf today, Joe?" asked Chester, pulling on his stocking. There was no reply. "Joe? How was your game?" 

"Eh? Oh. Silky...er...I mean swell." 

Real silk hosiery ad, 1927.