Our next art show will be nautically themed and so we wanted to do a little homage to the history of nautical fashion.
In 1846 Queen Victoria started the trend by dressing her son in a sailor suit for a portrait being pained of him. By 1871 the trend had made it to women's fashion and stuck around until today. Worn initially as "yachting costumes" the trend caught on quick.
At the turn of the century swimming was becoming a more popularized act of leisure. Designers turned to the nautical to gain inspiration for the modest swim garments. In 1915 the Sears catalog called the sailor dress "stylish."
The Middy Blouse that gained great popularity in the 1920's was influenced by the nautical styling of the previous decade. Patriotism during the first World War also pushed fashion towards a more patriotic styling and used red white and blue fabrics.
By the 1930's the fashion favorite sailor pant made it's way onto the scene. A high waist with buttons emulated the pants of the Navy. This look was popularized by many actresses of the time. 
When WWII was stirring up patriotism once again the papers said to, "Give a fashionable salute to the Navy in a sailor dress." At this time the nautical themed moved from just clothing to accessories and shoes. The 1950's is where nautical fashion really got it's signature look and has been a part of fashion ever since! Moving with the return of the middy and through the mod movement it is a classic look for summer and continues to be to this day.
Lanvin, Chloe and Marc Jacobs all have nautical trends for Spring / Summer 2015!Paper Doll Vintage has many nautical inspired retro style dresses in stock as well as accessories. Keep an eye out for swimsuits coming in for summer in the near future and follow us on Facebook and Instagram for updates!
We look forward to seeing you at the shop!
- Paper Doll Vintage
