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Editorial September 19, 1947

The Gary American

Gary, Lake County, Indiana

What is this article about?

Phyllis Arlene Jackson opines that debates over skirt lengths are silly, advocating for longer skirts as a sophisticated choice suitable for all women, despite material shortages and male preferences for shorter styles. She shares her personal shift in favor of the trend.

Merged-components note: Continuation of editorial on long skirts within the page.

Clipping

OCR Quality

95% Excellent

Full Text

The problem of long skirts is practically deploring. Pardon me. I misused a word, because the problem isn't even practical. It's absolutely silly to argue over the length of apparel; yet numerous columnists and fashion designers debate on this point.

It seems to me that it's all a matter of choice. It has no more significance than choosing a red or green hat to wear.

Long skirts, however, are a welcome style to some females. I refer to those whose legs don't rate a three-fold whistle when they make their daily trek down the avenue. On the other hand, the damsels, whose only refuge is their gorgeous gams will resort to tears because woe will be them when only the insignificant part of their limbs (feet) will be showing.

A radio commentator said that it was immoral for women to wear longer skirts when material was in such a demand. Yes, the men don't like the idea so much either, that is, some of them. They oppose all campaigns to elongate women's dresses.

Make an honest comparison on your next trip out of doors. Note the woman whose dress creeps slightly above her knees, fits tightly and snugly, and suspends itself over a pair of elevated shoes. Then pick out a lady in a 6-inch below the knee skirt, the new fascinating dark shade stockings, and a pair of low shoes. Well, there just isn't any comparison.
PHYLLIS ARLENE JACKSON

...the latter is suave and sophisticated and all women can secure that refined appearance. Before long, all men will learn to appreciate them and they will rate just as many whistles as they did in their short, snappy chocolate costume.

The old-fashioned mode of dressing is slowly forcing itself into our ultra-modern and modern lives, and to keep in style we're going to have to take it or do without it. I'll take it myself.

Boy, did I change! At the beginning, the idea of longer clothing was an insult. I'd immediately dig up my short skirts and haughtily parade around in them and dare any one to make a critical remark.

I learned my lesson, though, and so will all women and girls eventually.

What sub-type of article is it?

Social Reform Moral Or Religious

What keywords are associated?

Long Skirts Skirt Length Women's Fashion Apparel Debate Material Shortage

What entities or persons were involved?

Phyllis Arlene Jackson Fashion Designers Radio Commentator

Editorial Details

Primary Topic

Acceptance Of Longer Skirts In Women's Fashion

Stance / Tone

Supportive Of Longer Skirts And Personal Endorsement

Key Figures

Phyllis Arlene Jackson Fashion Designers Radio Commentator

Key Arguments

Debates Over Skirt Length Are Silly And A Matter Of Personal Choice Longer Skirts Benefit Women With Less Attractive Legs Shorter Skirts Are Opposed By Some Men And Seen As Immoral Due To Material Demand Longer Skirts Provide A Suave, Sophisticated Look For All Women Women Will Eventually Accept And Appreciate Longer Skirts

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