The evolution of clothing manufacturing is intertwined with the advent of factory sewing machines and the emergence of a middle class, eager to acquire and flaunt a constantly changing wardrobe.

This expanding digital presentation provides a glimpse into the daily operations and design inspirations of one of the few manufacturing sectors that thrive in New York City. It draws from two complementary library divisions.

h/t: vintag.es

The images showcased are from “Ladies’ Dress Shoes of the Nineteenth Century,” a publication by Captain Thomas Watson Greig located in the Research Library at the National Museum of Scotland. Notably, this publication originates from 1900, suggesting that our captivation with elegant footwear is not a recent occurrence but rather a longstanding aspect of our culture.