LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
Editor, Meredith Corning's Great Grandmother sits on left in image above.
Welcome to the premiere issue of Fashion Industry Yesterday! I began this project knowing that I wanted to show the importance of paying homage to those who came before us without sounding like a textbook. I have searched high and low (it was not that hard, actually) to find modern people utilizing references from the past
in their work today.
When I think about why historical costume and design intrigue me so much, I suppose it may be my own heritage. My Great Grandmother, Rebecca McLeod (featured in image left), was a master designer and seamstress, but only for herself and family members. I have heard stories about her infamous 18" waist (now why couldn't I have inherited that), her masterful sewing skills and her modern style during her time. Although from the south, she frequently made trips to New York City to visit relatives and picked up all that was modern and stylish - bringing back what she saw and creating her own designs. I also know that she made gorgeous hats that during that era was the epitome of class and sophistication.
I learned recently that another side of my lineage owned a prominent needle factory in England and another owned a business that sold hand sewn boat sails. I suppose it really is in my blood to be inquisitive of this industry and all facets that make it what it is today.