As we look back at the history of train travel, it’s easy to see how fashion has played an essential role in defining the industry’s style. From the early days of steam locomotives to the modern era of high-speed trains, fashion has always been an important aspect of train travel. In this article, we’ll take a journey through time to explore the evolution of train travel style throughout history.
The Early Days of Train Travel Style
In the early days of train travel, fashion was often more functional than stylish. Steam locomotives were dirty and hot, and passengers needed to dress in practical, comfortable clothing. Men typically wore suits or work clothes, while women wore long dresses and bonnets. Traveling in style was not a priority in those days, but as the industry grew, so did the desire for fashionable clothing.
The Golden Age of Train Travel
The golden age of train travel began in the late 1800s and lasted until the 1930s. During this time, luxury trains like the Orient Express and the Twentieth Century Limited became famous for their opulence and style. Passengers dressed to impress, with men wearing top hats and tailcoats and women donning elegant dresses and fur coats. Even in second class, passengers were expected to dress appropriately, with men wearing suits and women wearing smart dresses and hats.
The Art Deco Era
In the 1930s and 1940s, the Art Deco movement influenced train travel style. Trains became more streamlined and modern, with sleek designs and luxurious interiors. Passengers dressed in Art Deco-inspired clothing, with women wearing bias-cut dresses and men donning double-breasted suits. The era of glamorous train travel continued until the 1950s, when air travel began to take over as the preferred method of transportation.
The Swinging Sixties
The 1960s saw a revolution in train travel style, with the rise of mod fashion. Short skirts, bold patterns, and bright colors became the norm, and train travel became associated with youth culture. The Flying Scotsman and the Royal Scot were two iconic trains that epitomized the swinging sixties, with passengers wearing mini-skirts and bell-bottom pants.
The Present Day
Today, train travel style is more relaxed and comfortable than it was in the past. With the rise of high-speed trains, passengers are more focused on convenience than style. However, there are still luxury trains like the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express and the Royal Scotsman that offer passengers the chance to dress up and experience the glamour of train travel.
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Conclusion
The evolution of train travel style has been a fascinating journey, with fashion playing an important role in defining the industry’s image. From the early days of practical clothing to the glamour of the golden age and the mod fashion of the swinging sixties, train travel style has changed with the times. Today, passengers have more options than ever before, with luxury trains and high-speed trains both offering unique travel experiences. Whether you’re dressing up for a luxury train journey or dressing down for a quick commute, train travel style is still an important part of the industry’s allure.