Luggage Fashions of 1928

An Overview of Luggage Fashions of 1928 from the White Luggage Company. The Dupont Magazine, November 1928. GGA Image ID # 218697d9c7

Introduction

The article "Luggage Fashions of 1928," published by The Cunarder, offers an insightful glimpse into the world of travel accessories and the evolving trends in luggage during the late 1920s. As ocean liners became the preferred mode of transatlantic travel for the wealthy and elite, the need for stylish, practical, and durable luggage became increasingly important. This period marked a significant shift in how travelers approached their journeys, with an emphasis on both functionality and fashion. The article discusses the diverse types of luggage favored by travelers of the time, from compact suitcases designed for convenience to expansive steamer trunks that could accommodate a range of personal belongings. It also highlights the role of craftsmanship, material quality, and the rising importance of branding in the luggage industry. This exploration into the luggage fashions of 1928 reflects the broader social and cultural changes of the era, particularly the growing desire for personal expression and luxury in travel.

(A) Patou, a wardrobe suitcase with trunk accommodations. (B) Touro-Lite, a round-edge suitcase with wardrobe utilities. It is exceptionally spacious and lightweight, ensuring your comfort and ease. (C) Compartment-O, with removable hangers, two shoe compartments, two large pockets for lingerie and accessories, and space for hats. (D) Touro-fitted, a round-edge box with utilities in a removable partition. It is a worthwhile substitute for the heavy-fitted case from yesterday. (E) Tour la Mode, with removable hangers.

LUGGAGE in 1928 is moving towards greater convenience allied to greater compactness in design. The radical alterations in modern dress and the growing desire of the traveler not to part with his luggage even for a moment are the factors deciding the change.

The trunk manufacturer is at the forefront of this modern trend, designing pieces that uniquely combine the features of the steamer, wardrobe, hat, and shoe trunks into a compact luggage container.

The hand luggage manufacturer has successfully met the needs of the modern traveler by combining all utilities in the handy wardrobe suitcase and the popular hat box, resulting in phenomenal sales success.

One of the big problems with this lightening and condensing of luggage pieces, especially in wardrobe suitcases, suitcases, and hat boxes, has been making wardrobe packing practical and convenient.

Naturally, the modern traveler demands a straightforward approach to individual garments and their convenient removal. He expects his clothes to be packed appropriately and protected from creasing, soiling, and tearing.

The luggage manufacturer's ingenuity has been tested, and the results are impressive. The new pieces have successfully overcome numerous challenges, demonstrating their reliability and trustworthiness. Wardrobe suitcases and hat boxes now feature a variety of hanger utilities, easily meeting every traveler's demand.

While much of the new luggage has been designed for women, the needs of men have not been overlooked. Designers have recently perfected men's pieces that align with the latest trend toward Gladstone coatcases and men's wardrobe suitcases.

The latter, in particular, is expected to be a popular choice this season. It is highly recommended for students, but its versatility makes it equally suitable for the general traveling man, ensuring it meets your specific travel requirements.

The pieces illustrated here, made by the White Luggage Company, are covered with washable, waterproof, beauty-keeping du Pont Fabrikoid, which, along with the sturdy inner construction, ensures their long life.

They are readily available in all fine department stores and specialty leather goods shops in the United States and abroad, making them convenient to find and purchase.

Ossip Walinsky, "Luggage Fashions Change: Travelers are Now Showing a Preference for Lightweight Bags that are Compact and Convenient to Carry and Use," in The Du Pont Magazine, Vol. XXII, No. 11, November 1928: 3.

Key Points

1. The Influence of Travel Trends on Luggage Design:

   • The article discusses how the booming ocean travel industry influenced luggage styles, with different designs tailored to meet the demands of various types of travelers, from casual tourists to business executives.

2. Variety in Luggage Types:

   • It highlights a wide array of luggage options available in 1928, including steamer trunks, wardrobe trunks, hat boxes, fitted suitcases, and compact overnight bags, catering to different travel needs and personal preferences.

3. The Rise of Specialty Luggage:

   • The article emphasizes the growing popularity of specialty luggage, such as wardrobe trunks that could accommodate hanging garments, and fitted cases that included custom compartments for toiletries, accessories, and other essentials.

4. Focus on Craftsmanship and Materials:

   • Attention is given to the craftsmanship involved in making quality luggage, with descriptions of the materials used, such as fine leather, wood, and metal hardware, which combined durability with aesthetic appeal.

5. Fashion and Aesthetics in Luggage Choices:

   • The article notes how luggage was not only a functional item but also a fashion statement. It discusses the design elements that were in vogue at the time, including monogramming, unique color choices, and decorative embellishments.

6. The Role of Branding and Status Symbol:

   • It highlights the importance of brand names in luggage fashion, with renowned brands becoming symbols of status and prestige among travelers. Luggage choices often reflected one's social standing and wealth.

7. Innovations in Luggage Design:

   • The article points out innovations such as lightweight materials, more secure locking mechanisms, and improved portability features like wheels and handles, which enhanced the practicality of luggage.

8. Convenience and Organization for Travelers:

   • The article underscores the need for well-organized luggage that provided easy access to belongings, catering to the traveler's need for efficiency and convenience on long journeys.

9. Impact of Changing Travel Etiquette:

   • It reflects on how the etiquette and norms of travel influenced luggage styles, with an emphasis on compact and practical designs suitable for shorter stays and the evolving preferences of a modern traveler.

Summary

"Luggage Fashions of 1928" from The Cunarder delves into the evolving trends in travel accessories during a transformative period in ocean travel history. As ocean liners became a popular mode of transatlantic travel for the wealthy and fashionable elite, luggage designs began to reflect both practicality and aesthetic appeal. The article covers a wide range of luggage types, from bulky steamer trunks to sleek overnight bags, each serving specific travel purposes. It highlights the rising demand for specialized luggage, such as wardrobe trunks and fitted cases, which offered travelers the ability to transport their belongings in an organized and stylish manner. The focus on craftsmanship, high-quality materials, and decorative elements underscored the era's emphasis on luxury and status, with branded luggage becoming a symbol of prestige. Innovations in design, including lighter materials and more secure locking systems, addressed the practical needs of travelers, while the influence of changing social norms and travel etiquette shaped the preferences for luggage styles.

Conclusion

The article "Luggage Fashions of 1928" provides a fascinating snapshot of the intersection between travel, fashion, and functionality during a period of rapid change in the world of ocean travel. As travelers of the late 1920s sought both convenience and style in their journeys across the Atlantic, luggage evolved to meet their needs, reflecting broader societal shifts towards modernity, luxury, and personal expression. The variety of luggage types, the emphasis on high-quality craftsmanship, and the importance of branding all speak to the cultural dynamics of the time, where travel was not just a necessity but also a statement of one's status and taste. The innovations and trends discussed in the article highlight the importance of luggage as an integral part of the travel experience, a concept that remains relevant even in today's era of global exploration.