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When a national newspaper needed a feature to coincide with the TV series Downton Abbey, they asked Harry & Edna for a glimpse into life 100 years ago.
"The Edwardian / 1910's are an amazing period in our history" said Edna "and this was reflected in the clothing women wore. Social change was brewing in the 1910's. In the past, clothes had been mostly hand sewn, but during the turn of the century the sewing machine was introduced, which made the mass production of clothing possible and the latest fashions affordable to the middle and lower classes. The styles worn reflected the beginning of a woman's changing role in society. It was becoming increasingly acceptable for women to work outside the home. If a woman did not have to work for a living, she was expected to lead an active and useful life",
Edna's elegant travelling suit was selected from a spring 1916 W & H Walker's catalogue. The fabrics used for garments intended for this purpose would need to be durable and in colours that would be practical for the rather dirty methods of travelling at the time. The outfit is made from wool and silk which are fabrics consistent with what would have been available during this era.
The three quarter sleeves were practical as one would not need worry that their cuff would be soiled during transit.
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