NOW YOU KNOW

We take a step back to look at the story behind key fashion items that influence that way we dress today. History lesson, anyone?

- Syazil Abd Rahim

CROSSBODY BAG

Allowing both of your hands to hang freely, crossbody bags are arguably the most practical bags a person could ever own. The design idea emerged in the 1860s when the Pony Express mail service produced a bag across the body for their employees to carry parcels and letters. The concept was then adopted and promoted by a bag specialist company De Martini Globe Canvas and naturally made the move to the fashion industry when designers started to present their own interpretations. No matter the size, we say they are amongst the perfect complement to an outfit.

SHORTS

Let’s face it, there is no garment with quite as debonair a history as the old-thigh revealer. And if you consider the legs as the sexiest part of your body, why not show them regardless of the season? Back as early as the 1800s, shorts were only made for football players to wear for training and matches. After professional British tennis player Bunny Austin appeared in tennis shorts in the 1932 US Men’s Championships, the garment began to receive traction as practical wear for sporting and other casual occasions. At the beginning of the 20th century, the British military forces adopted the design and introduced Bermuda shorts for the troops that were on duty in the tropical parts of the old British empire. Civilians started to copy and treated them with different fabrications, making shorts more than just leisurewear.

GLOVES