Part 4/8:
Clothing was not just a matter of style; it served a critical purpose in terms of warmth and survival. Many Victorians possessed very few garments, often wearing mismatched layers of clothing to keep warm in poorly heated homes. Layers were practical, too; for the wealthy, societal standards demanded an image of respectability through neat appearances while still managing to keep warm.
Photographs from the period, especially mug shots of the impoverished, provide authentic glimpses into everyday fashion—often showing torn, patched, and ill-fitting clothing that the lower classes wore. Conversely, upper-class attire could imply economic stability and moral character, with individuals encouraged to present themselves tidily to secure jobs or maintain their social standing.