The objectives of the study were to investigate extant clothing and accessories worn in the desert region of Arizona, to collect evidence to indicate if clothing was suitable to the climate, and to provide insight as to how clothing practices from the past can aid in adjustments to desert environments in the future. / The research included both descriptive and laboratory analysis of data collection. In reconstructing the past, a variety of primary and secondary sources were consulted to establish the historical setting and physical environment of the desert. Extant garments and accessories, census reports, written recollections, private papers, and photographs provided descriptive evidence as to clothing practices and garment adjustments and modifications. Laboratory tests were used to analyze fiber content, yarn type, fabric thread count, and thickness; color, texture, and garment design were visually analyzed. A comparative analysis with Douglas H. K. Lee's principles, objectives, and applications of clothing for dry climates aided in ascertaining suitability of clothing to the climate. / The following conclusions were made: (1) Arizona clothing, from 1880 to 1930, was similar in fabrics, design features, and color to clothing worn in the "civilized" sections of the United States. (2) Men's clothing was more suitable for the desert environment; women's was less suitable. Fiber and fabric properties, garment design and fit, as well as adjustments men made while wearing garments all contributed to suitability. Women, during the 50 year period, also wore garments made of fibers and fabrics that were appropriate for the climate. However, suitability of the design and fit of women's clothing varied during the period studied. From 1880 to 1910, fit and design of women's garments were unsuitable, but after 1910, clothing design and fit were more appropriate for the desert climate. Arizona women made fewer adjustments in wearing garments than did men. (3) Clothing worn in the desert should utilize the concept of "housing the body," with special attention given to the design and fit of garments, adjustments made in wearing garments, and the barrier effects of clothing. / Source: Dissertation Abstracts International, Volume: 46-04, Section: B, page: 1140. / Thesis (Ph.D.)--The Florida State University, 1985.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:fsu.edu/oai:fsu.digital.flvc.org:fsu_75574 |
| Contributors | BRANDT, BRENDA MARGARET., Florida State University |
| Source Sets | Florida State University |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Text |
| Format | 214 p. |
| Rights | On campus use only. |
| Relation | Dissertation Abstracts International |
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