Ensemble 1870s

This ensemble was made by L.P. Hollander & Co., though we don’t know when exactly. The jacket, crafted from luxurious black velvet, immediately conveys a sense of opulence. Its plush texture and deep color speak to a tradition of high-end tailoring, where the quality of the material is paramount. Notice the precise placement of each button and ribbon, indicating careful handwork, alongside the machine production of the fabric itself. The kilt below, a vibrant tartan, showcases a different kind of textile expertise. With its complex weave and bold colors, it represents a cultural heritage, likely Scottish, translated into a commodity. The ribbons act as accents, punctuating the design and providing depth to the overall aesthetic. These two garments, combined, reveal the broader story of fashion. One that blends craft traditions and the industrialized production of textiles, with social status, cultural identity, and global trade. When considering this ensemble, it is essential to think about the many hands, and machines, involved in its making, as well as the aspirations it embodies.