Out and About

During the 1800s, there were many rules for what was proper to wear to various daily events and activities. Although not everyone could afford many special outfits, everyone usually needed some sort of outfit that was more casual than their "best clothes," but still suitable for running errands, shopping, receiving visitors, or visiting friends. Displayed here are examples of just this sort of "Out & About" wear, from the relatively expensive afternoon dresses of the 1880s to the simple pants suits of the 1970s.