I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, I really don’t know how the Californians of the 1800s went to the beach dressed like this. I know it could have been winter and I know it was a more formal time, but imagine walking along Newport Beach as this woman was in the 1890s in long sleeves, long skirt, probably boots and probably a corset. It’s interesting how stores were lined up along the walkway including…a post office, a steam laundry, and—oddly—a sign advertising the San Francisco Chronicle.
Walking the shoreline of Newport Beach, California, circa 1890s
The men didn’t have it much easier: three-piece wool suits and shirts with detachable collars that were stiff and cut into the necks of the wearers. The hallmark of the late Victorian era may have been sweat.
And not much in the way of anti-deodorants either, I’d imagine.
Being from Newport, I’m curious just exactly where is the location this picture was taken now.
Albert – if you ever do learn the location, I’d love to hear about it!