The idea of the apron is said to trace as far back of the mythical times of Adam and Eve. The loved up inventive couple were believed to have sewn together fig leaves to cover up their naked bodies. And from an iconic historian to another; in the early days of the Jack the Ripper investigations, neighbours of the villain would refer to him as ‘Leather Apron’ when questioned by police. The man in the leather apron would be said to force prostitutes into giving him their money and if they refused he would beat them. Hardly the values of what the apron represents today.
The 16th and 17th century saw aprons being worn by barbers, butchers and Masons. The practical women of the 19th century used the apron to protect clothing, carry utensils and collect eggs.
It was in the 1950’s that the apron made its statement. With the help on 50’s – 60’s television and the beautiful women it presented, the apron became associated with good mothers and homemakers. Characters such as June Cleaver from "Leave it to Beaver", or Alice, the maid on the "The Brady Bunch" exaggerated the loving stay at home wife stereotype.
Leave it to Beaver http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GRHPb8hXr1I&feature=related
The apron, originated from French word naperon (meaning napkin/small tablecloth), as simple as it looks comes in a variety of styles. These housewives don’t just settle for anything. Pickford, Hoover, Bib, Waist and Clobber aprons are among those designs to choose from and that’s not including the attention to detail patterns that smooch the fabric.
But don’t be fooled into thinking that the apron is just for the ladies of the land. It would seem the men of the 12th century were first in the apron line. They used them as hygienic, protective wear...oh how very anal of them. And before the macho men of the 21st century insist the apron is only for women; next time you’re persuading the wife that you should start the barbeque, just remember the first piece of equipment you put on.
So, when did the novelty apron appear? You know, the ones with fake boobies or bra and suspenders printed on them! Do men enjoy wearing them (an excuse to cross dress in front of the missus) or do they feel obliged cos they were given as a gift?
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