Figure 1.-- We notice a range of headwear in 1940. Flat caps were going out of style and being relaced with caps that had more rounded crowns. We note what were called "helmets" during the witer. We also see syocking caps and ear muffs as well as goggles. There is a decided aviation influence here. The Wards Fall-Winter 1940-41 catalog headwear page provides details. The page is particularly useful because the ad copy tells us a great deal about the different items. |
One interesting aspect of the Wards 1940-41 catalog headwear page is the selection of what are called "helmets" and goggles. We assume that this a reflection of the populariity od aviation and aviators. Wards describes them as "Practical, Cold-proof Helmets." We do note them being worn in the photographic record. We areunsure, however, just how popular they were. One note here. Unless it was really cold, boys often did not like wearing their ear flaps. It was seen by some older boys as does not hip or cool. This was affected somewhat by the themometer. Thus attitudes here probably varies between Minnesota and Mississipi. We are guessing that these helmet-type caps probably were most popular in the northern states. Note that the illustrations show the flps down, but these caps could be worn with flaps up as well. We are also guessing tht these caps would have been more popular with younger boys and were probably mostly seen in elementary (primary) school. I remember having one of the caps in the early 1950s and almost never wore it with the flaps down. Wards offered several different styles.
The Wards ad copy read, "Longest Wearing. Scuff-proof. $1.79. Wards best, full lamb shearling
lined for warmth. Ear panels have screen ventilators. Adjustable chin strap. Laskin Lamb peak may be turned down to protect forehead. Chocolate Brown color. Sizes: Small (6 3/8, 6 1/2, 6 5/8); Medium (6
3/4. 6 7/8); Large (7, 7 1/8). State size. 35 B 9409--Ship. wt. 11 oz.
Each $1.79."
The Wards ad copy read, "Lamb Pelt Lined Side Panels. Horsehide. Sturdy, pliable leathers.
Adjustable goggles, chin strap. Wool faced crown lining. Sizes: Small (6 3/8, 6 1/2, 6 5/8); Medium (6 3/4, 6 1/8); Large (7, 7 1/8). State size. See How to Measure below. Ship. wt. 9 oz. 35 B 9408--Black no
Scuff Horsehide $1.29. 35 B 9407--Black sheepskin 98 cents."
The Wards ad copy read, "Thrift Priced, Sheepskin Leather. Special Value! Strongly sewn double
stitched seams. Adjustable goggles and chinstrap. Warm plaid Cotton fleece lining. Sizes: Small (6 5/8, 6 1/2, 6 5/8); Medium (6 3/4, 6 7/8); Large (7, 7 1/8). State size. 35 B 9405--Black. 35 B 9406--Brown.
Ship. wt. 8 oz, 74 cents."
The Wards ad copy read,Sturdy, good Quality Leatherette 45 cents. Cotton fleece lined with
adjustable chin strap. Detachable rubbed cushioned goggles. Strong double stitched seams. Sizes: Small (6 3/8, 6 1/2, 6 5/8); Medium (6 3/4, 6 7/8); Large (7, 7 1/8). State size. 35 B 9401--Black. 35 B
9402--Brown. Ship. wt. 7 oz. 45 cents."
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