What to wear for the first motorists

Barely had time to begin of the XX century, the popularity of cars began to grow by leaps and bounds, and there is a market of specialized clothing for motorists. Because the first cars had no roofs, no doors, and they rode mostly on a dirt unpaved roads, drivers needed clothes that protect against wind, cold and dust.

(11 photos)

Around the year 1900. The archives of the Library of Congress.

As a rule, people who could afford the first cars, had enough money, and smart manufacturers have realized that the car will be sold as the coveted and expensive status symbol.

Around the year 1900. Photo: JONATHAN KIRN/GETTY IMAGES VIA CORBIS.

The main element of fashionable image of the car was loose jacket to the floor, which could vary from easy leather coats to voluminous fur coats depending on the weather and climate.

January 25, 1907. Motorists-fans dressed up for the Liverpool show. Photo: TOPICAL PRESS AGENCY/GETTY IMAGES.

Women's coat for driving found in different colors so you can match them with the car itself, and were made of thin fabrics such as linen and silk, with the addition of protective elements. Essential accessory was a special driving gloves.

Around the year 1900. Co-founder of the company Rolls-Royce, Charles Stewart rolls dressed up as a COP writes a fine man in a suit the motorist. Photo: SSPL/GETTY IMAGES.

In men, the hood for driving were often fitted with special goggles to protect against dust and random rocks. Women's hats were removable dust protection.

Around 1910. Photo: THE MONTIFRAULO COLLECTION/GETTY IMAGES.

As a symbol of power and style automotive clothing are frequently worn and just like that, when not driven. Look like you just went on the car became fashionable.

1903. Photo: THE PRINT COLLECTOR/GETTY IMAGES.

As cars became cheaper and more common, and having roofs and doors, automotive, clothing lost its popularity as a means of protection and as a symbol of high social status.

Around 1905. Photo: HULTON ARCHIVE/GETTY IMAGES.

Around 1905. Photo: HULTON ARCHIVE/GETTY IMAGES.

1905. Photo: HULTON ARCHIVE/GETTY IMAGES.

1905. Photo: HULTON ARCHIVE/GETTY IMAGES.

Around 1910. Photo: HULTON ARCHIVE/GETTY IMAGES.