Fashion From the 1880s: History's Best Sellers

Hats off to 1880s! Few fashion commanded as much fanfare and nationwide excitement as Duster. Alongside sensationally popular hits like Fedora and Black tie, consumers eagerly embraced the swell Yankee ingenuity and home-front craftsmanship. Pioneering outfits from industry leaders like [] and Victorien Sardou set the standard for quality, producing celebrated items that swept main street from coast to coast as genuine top-flight hits. Browse our definitive retrospective below to rediscover the genuine articles of the era.

1. Duster (clothing)

   Released in 1880 by

   The duster coat emerged from practical necessity in the late 19th century, quickly becoming an indispensable garment for those who traversed dusty trails and early roadways. Originally designed to shield clothing from the pervasive grit kicked up by horses and then automobiles, its immediate success stemmed from its sheer utility and protective qualities. This loose-fitting, long coat offered a simple yet effective solution to a common problem, allowing adventurers and travelers to arrive at their destinations relatively clean. Its rapid adoption by horsemen and pioneering motorists alike solidified its place as a quintessential piece of outerwear, marking it as an early example of fashion driven by functional demand in a rapidly changing world.

2. Fedora

   Released in 1882 by Victorien Sardou, Sarah Bernhardt

   The fedora, a timeless fashion icon, made its dramatic debut not on a runway, but on the theatrical stage. First appearing in Victorien Sardou's 1882 play "Fédora," it was famously donned by the legendary actress Sarah Bernhardt in her role as Princess Fédora Romanoff. This elegant felt hat instantly captured public imagination, quickly transitioning from a costume piece to a powerful symbol. Initially embraced by women, particularly suffragettes, as a statement of independence and practicality, its sophisticated silhouette and versatile charm laid the groundwork for its unparalleled success. What began as a prop for a Russian princess soon became a global phenomenon, defining masculine style for much of the 20th century and cementing its place in fashion history.

3. Black tie

   Released in 1886 by Prince of Wales (later Edward VII), James Potter

   The 'Black tie' dress code, commonly known for its sophisticated elegance, made its debut as a revolutionary comfort piece for evening wear, marking a significant departure from the rigid formality of the tailcoat. Its initial adoption by high society for less formal private dinners quickly cemented its place as an essential alternative. Offering a refined yet relaxed aesthetic, Black tie embodied a new era of elegance and social ease, making it an instant cultural and commercial hit within the upper echelons who valued both style and comfort. This pivotal shift democratized evening wear slightly, while still maintaining an air of exclusivity and distinction for special occasions.