Old fashioned aprons would probably have to mean something that is not new. Aprons that were worn by our ancestors and even in times before that. One thing is for certain, aprons have always been necessary as a means of keeping oneself clean and tidy during particular duties.

Old fashioned aprons were generally a lot bigger than they are today. They would have fancy ruffles and bows and extras on them that would make them appear more like a dress or full garment than just something to keep you clean! If you look for patterns for aprons for styles even from the 1950’s, you will find a large, rather flamboyant type of cover all, probably because back then, housework was much more readily done than it is today. Modern conveniences like washing machines, and dishwashers have cut down considerably the amount of housework that needs to be done.

What we are investigating here then is how women would have completed much of the housework back then which is very interesting isn’t it? Before these times, aprons were still very frilly, look at the type that maids would have worn, or even cooks back in the time where a family would employ a staff to look after them. You would never see a butler wearing an apron or a gardener, so if an apron depicts work, who really did all the work? Interesting…