Changing-times Quote by Theresa Breslin
““There is much argument here about what is respectable and what is not, and what a good gel should or should not do regarding hemlines. I have to report that the general opinion of a soldier looking forward to leave after many months at the Front is that a hemline should go up as far as possible, and that the more unrespectable the girl the better. The proviso being, of course, that one's own wife/sweetheart should not occupy this category.””
About This Quote
Source Letter, 1940s military context
Soldiers desire more revealing clothing for morale; personal preferences clash with propriety.
In simple terms: Soldiers prefer less modest attire.
Recognize differing standards in stressful environments.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- uniform design
- morale boosting
- media portrayal
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Why does attire matter to soldiers?
- How do standards shift in war?
May trivialize serious gender issues.