Volume IV Number 4
THE RADICAL FEMINISM OF FLAPPERS INTERVIEWS WITH
C O C O C H A N E L AND CLARA BOW
CONTENTS Volume II Number 4
pg 9 pg 8 An exclusive interview with Coco Chanel What began 75 years ago at the Seneca Falls Convention has finally come to a close.
Features
Up Front pg A Letter from 2 the Editor
pg The Radical Feminism of 5 Flappers A new style is sweeping the streets, along with a new attitude and way of life.
pg Coco Chanel Ms steals an interview with this international 8 fashion icon. pg The 75th Seneca Falls 9 Convention The beginning of the final campaign for the suffragist movement.
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Volume IV Number 4
pg 12
pg A Time of Change The 1920’s is a time for women to claim what 11 is rightfully theirs. pg Our It Girl: Clara Bow Bow talks about her start and struggles as 12 Ms an actress. pg The Age of Innocence: A 14 Pulitzer Prize Winner
pg 5
Flappers enjoying tea outside a cafe.
pg 11
Clara Bow
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A LETTER FROM THE EDITOR Dear Readers, These past few years have all been about change. Everything around us is changing, and for the better. On August 19th, a monumental day occurred for women all over America. The nineteenth amendment of the United States Constitution was ratified, finally giving women a voice in politics. Although it has been a long and difficult one, we have finally reached the end of this road.This doesn’t mean women will be treated fairly, or as equals with our male counterparts, but it certainly is one step closer to equality for mankind. There still are many more paths we need to take to achieve such a status in society. My favorite article featured in this issue would have to be The Radical Feminism of Flappers (page 5). I love seeing women creating a Women learning how to vote. new style to go with this
"The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex."
-19th Amendment of the U.S Constitution revolutionary time. The bobs. short dresses and pants defy everything the “proper” woman should be, showing just how ready we are for change. Change to do whatever we please. This change is good. It’s resulting in new found liberties, and the realization we can be anyone we want to be, not just what our society tells us to be. Times are different. After all, women of the last century didn’t have the right to vote. And you certainly wouldn’t see a soul in anything other than a modest, itchy, cotton dress. We’ve taken a few giant leaps towards equality, making us that much closer to a more fair and just time.
Melissa Paul Editor of Ms. Magazine 3
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THE RADICAL FEMINISM OF FLAPPERS
A
fter the end of the great war, a new, vivacious
trailblazing brand of woman has burst on to the scene: the daring, bold flapper. The term seems to have arose from the woodwork, but for an important purpose- under the influence of the flappers, many women have adopted the modern style of dress and a new attitude towards life. These distinctive young women most certainly had need of a name that was unmistakably theirs. When men were occupied in the war effort at the
fronts,
women
were
left
with
the task
of
continuing what the men had left behind. Management and running of businesses,
factories, schools and
knees. They have abandoned their corsets and the
other such establishments were left to them. Women
ideal of the voluptuously feminine Gibson girl in
broke tradition and society's doubt that women were
favor of a "garconne" appearance, complete with
capable of such accomplishments.
straight, effortless silhouettes and drop-waist dresses.
confidence
as
their
Though appearing feminine is not a main concern,
country's war effort. At the end of the war, changed
flappers flaunt their sexuality. Bobbed hair has also
from years of difficult work and terrible tragedies,
become a standard for the flapper; it is admirably
women found it difficult to leap back into the
practical in its stately defiance. High heels and
oppression of everyday life. The severe shortage of
rolled
young men was another reason for why women
Cosmetics, previously reserved only for prostitutes,
decided to live for themselves without worrying about
are worn like a badge of honor. Garish adornments,
their reputation in the eyes of potential suitors.
such as powder, rouge, eye-liner, and red lipstick are
Instead,
social
now considered quite chic, though still rather daring.
conventions, and a new popular philosophy arose. A
The style of the flapper has undoubtedly received
war ravaged country ready for change was the ideal
much negative attention for its supposedly tasteless
climate for such a revolution.
nature. However, the flappers do not mind: for they
some
individuals
women
who
Women gained
decided
worked
to
for
flout
Flappers are wearing dresses with hemlines of shockingly short lengths, often almost exposing their
5
The bob is becoming an increasing popular haircut.
rayon
stockings
are
common
accessories.
are in control of their bodies and their dress. It is a demonstration of independence from
“It is a demonstration of independence from controlling patriarchal society� By: Marie Andre the controlling patriarchal society of today's world. The
automobiles. These habits were previously considered
flappers' fashion has been rather watered-down for the
socially unacceptable for women, but are now slowly
mainstream, but it has nevertheless had a significant
being accepted by the public. Other habits of the
impact. Now, more and more women are encouraged to
flapper, such as petting parties, remain unacceptable.
abandon their corsets in favor for more comfortable
Flappers, however, are radicals, who feel free to
clothing that suits an active lifestyle. Facile bobbed hair
partake in sexual activities of their own accord. New
is now common among young ladies. This cultural shift
dances have emerged, such as the Charleston, whose
is indeed significant for the cause of feminism.
wildness suits the spirited swells of jazz. In order to
The
most
dance such improper routines, women require a sort of
controversial. Flappers often congregate in the safety of
dress which allows more freedom of movement; thus,
forward-thinking
New York,
the lifestyle and dress of the flapper feed one another.
Chicago, and Paris. These havens can accommodate their
Such a daring new woman is revolutionary in this day
carefree, reckless lifestyle. The quintessential flapper girl
and age. The flapper is sure to uproot even more
is
social conventions, and the world will be watching.
a
lifestyle
large
party-loving,
of
cities
liberated
flappers
such
is
as
risk-taker
also
who
drinks
alcohol, smokes cigarettes, and drives
A group of several women showing off their new style.
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COCO CHANEL, FASHION REVOLUTIONIST
W
ithin ten years of her arrival on the scene, Coco Chanel has been catapulted into the spotlight as an
international fashion icon. Chanel was originally a milliner who provided a fresh perspective in women's fashion when she introduced her elegantly simple hats. Women were tiring if their ornate headdresses, and preferred Chanel's chic pieces. Chanel soon set her sights on luxury garments, which reflected a similar aesthetic. The endeavor was success. Her latest successful business venture was her first fragrance, which she named Chanel No. 5. In a sleek, unembellished bottle, and devoid of the overwhelming floral scent often used in womens perfumes, her parfum is the epitome of sophistication. Ms. seized the opportunity to interview the world-famous designer. Ms: Welcome, Chanel. Firstly, we would like to ask you:
what
is
the
inspiration
behind
your
revolutionary aesthetic?
Chanel: Of course, there was the influence from men's
clothing.
The
fabrics
of
men's
clothing
inspired my look. But the real ideology behind the silhouette is the freedom of movement. Women have been constrained and uncomfortable in their clothing for so long- what they needed was comfortable clothing that allowed for a more active lifestyle.
Ms: You made tanned skin and the bob fashionable by flaunting the look yourself. The popular fashion of
Ms: You
believe
women
engage
in
an
active
lifestyle?
today is largely inspired by your designs. Do you think your work is responsible for the change in beliefs of today's young women?
Chanel: Certainly. Life is much more enjoyable
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when engaged in. For resort wear, it was especially
Chanel: I simply created the designs. Women would
important to me to make clothing that allows
have done so without my contribution. They were
women the liberty of moving. Women should enjoy
ready for change, and they were not afraid to life as
vacation without having to be overly worried about
they wanted. And so they did, not by my command,
their style of dress or about tanning their skin!
or anyone else's. Women will not be kept back.
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THE 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE SENECA FALLS CONVENTION
Women marching for suffrage.
O
n a day in 1840, two individuals
compelled
by
their
shared
visions
Stanton and Mott fortuitously met again at a social gathering. That
of
very afternoon, alongside the women Martha C. Wright, Mary Ann
equality met. Their names were Elizabeth
McClintock, and Jane Hunt, they decided to hold the convention at
Cady Stanton and Lucretia Mott. The two
long last.
revolutionaries agreed that the rights of women
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were
in
dire
need
Stanton was entrusted with writing the resolutions to be
of
announced at the convention. Mott argued that Stanton should not
improvement, and talked of organizing a
include her resolution that women should have the right to vote, for
convention to discuss the issues. However,
it would make them look ridiculous. However, Stanton firmly
the event would never come about, until
believed that this was an important resolution, and kept the point in
eight years later, when
her writing. Unfortunately, neither woman would live long enough to
By: Marie Andre activist, has seized the opportunity this anniversary to introduce a new
legally cast her ballot. It was determined the venue for the
amendment, known as the Equal Rights Amendment. This amendment
convention would be a methodist church
to the United States Constitution would grant equal rights to men and
in Seneca Falls. The sole advertisement
women throughout the country. The Equal Rights Amendment has
for the event was placed in the Seneca
been introduced to Congress, and will continue to be introduced until
County
justice for women is achieved. The future appears bright for women
Courier.
Nevertheless, three
hundred men and women were present at the
gathering
on
July
19th.
indeed.
Mott's
husband read the resolutions to the crowd, for none of the ladies felt as though were able to perform under such pressure. The proposition of women having the vote met
the
most
resistance.
However,
Frederick Douglass, a newspaper editor in attendance,
was
able
to
convince
the
crowd otherwise. By the end of the convention, one hundred people signed the Seneca Falls Declaration. The
Seneca
Falls
Convention
received largely negative press. However, Elizabeth
Cady Stanton
believed
that
discussion of the topics of any kind was necessary for progress. Seventy-five years after the convention, the most outrageous goal of all Seneca Falls Convention had to offer has finally been accomplished. Women have achieved higher status in society than ever before. Alice Paul, a women's rights
Women cheering (top) and marching (left) as news of the vote reaches them.
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A TIME OF CHANGE
T
By: Marie Andre
hroughout the course of human history, the fearsome spirit of the female sex has
been
trampled in its infancy, unable to blossom under oppressive traditions and beliefs
passed from generation to generation. However, women possess a fiery determination that cannot be contained by society forever: women such as the admirable Lucretia Mott, and the steadfast Elizabeth Cady Stanton, who began the discussion of more political power for women in the middle of the nineteenth century; women such as Alice Paul and Emmeline Pankhurst, who
actively appealed for women's suffrage until their vision was
achieved. Recently, women inspired by the likes of Coco Chanel and Louise Brooks have demanded social equality instead of the political equality that earlier feminists desired. They have displayed their defiance by driving automobiles, meeting in saloons and speakeasies, and abandoning their corsets. Determined to enjoy the liberties men do, they have rejected social expectations of the past for a new, alluring glamour. However, this glittering lifestyle requires large sums of money to maintain. This poses a significant issue for women: where is the source of wealth for the "new woman"? Women have passed significant milestones in the recent years in their battle for equality. Unfortunately, there are lingering inequities in society that will most likely remain for many years. Among the long list of injustices is the disparity between male and female wages: it is estimated that women earn a fourth of that men make for a similar occupation. Alas, though more women become gainfully employed as secretaries and saleswomen, their salaries are not substantial enough to support their extravagant behavior. These young women often depend on men to economically support their nightlife endeavors and acquirement of luxury goods, in exchange for sexual favors. The so called "independence" of flappers is, in fact, dependence! The weight of the blame should not be burdened on the bare shoulders of flappers, for what fault is it of theirs? The true offender is the misogyny that characterizes western society today. The enraging gender inequality of the modern world will take many years to mend. However, the process will be expedited if the people speak out for what is right. The female strength must be cultivated and encouraged, and women must From top down: Lucretia Mott, Alice Paul, Elizabeth Cady Stanton.
fight for both
social and political equality that should be intrinsic rights. To make a stand against the oppression of women has always been a challenging task, but a necessary one. And the dynamic culture of America recovering from the world war is a perfect climate to
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tolerate it.
OUR IT GIRL: CLARA BOW
M
s got the opportunity to sit down with one
of motion picture’s biggest new star, Clara Bow.
sixteen or so, I just knew... that I wanted to be an actress.
After starting her career at the young age of sixteen, Ms Bow has been casted in six films, and appears
Ms: Did you ever believe you would become so big?
to have an extremely bright future ahead of her.
People are calling you “The It Girl.”
Ms: From a young age, did you know you wanted
Bow: This is just incredible. It’s as if all of my dreams
to be an actress?
are coming true. Once I was a teenager and started looking for some roles, I began to realize just what a
Bow: Yeah, I loved and was drawn towards pictures,
tough industry this was. That’s when I started to realize
even as a young child. I remember after watching
that I might not become one of those big stars, but I
motion pictures, I always had a queer feeling about
never stopped trying.
actors and actresses on the screen... I knew I would have done it differently. I couldn't analyze it, but I
Ms: So your family was supportive of your passion?
could always feel it. I would go home and reenact what I had seen in front of the mirror in my
Bow:
Definitely.
My
father
especially.
He
would
bathroom. I think by the time I was
encourage me to go stand outside of studio agencies and ask for parts, but there was always something. I was too young, or too little, or too fat. Usually I was too fat.
Ms: Did those rejections impact at you at all?
Bow: They definitely hurt a bit. You just got to get up and keep going. Being a woman, I believe people look at you differently, and don’t give you enough credit. That’s why I kept going, because I knew I had something even if they didn’t. I think that’s an important message for any young woman out there, to just keep going, no matter what. If you want something... you can get it.
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AN AGE OF I N N O C E N C E: A PULITZER PRIZE WINNER
I
By: Marie Andre
n 1921, a Pulitzer Prize for fiction was awarded to Edith Wharton, which made her the first female
recipient of the distinguished award ever. The novel, titled The Age of Innocence, details the unglamorous truths behind the seemingly perfect lives of the New York upper class. The despair of a loveless but acceptable marriage in late nineteenth century is the focus of the plot. Wharton's seamless depiction of the luxurious lifestyle is admired by readers. Wharton herself is currently in her late fifties, and lived through the time of her story as one of the rich in New York. Her skilled efforts deserved the Pulitzer Award. Such a leap forward in literature is a significant accomplishment for women. Wharton has shown the world that brilliant female poets and novelists deserve recognition for their work as much as males do. Accomplishments by one woman aid the entire cause of feminism. Wharton has returned with two other original novels- the first, released two years ago, Glimpses of the Moon, a poignant novel about two penniless people living in high society, both hoping to marry into a rich family and who end up falling in love with each other. The novel explores misunderstandings between people and where exactly the true values in relationships lie. Excellently written in present day, again based in New York, Wharton again explores the world she is familiar with at a different angle. The second novel of Wharton's, A Son at the Front, is centered around a son who joins the infantry of the World War, and his parents who waits anxiously for him at home. The novel deals with the intense emotions surrounding such a situation. Both of these new novels have been well-received by readers. Wharton continues to captivate with the depth of feeling in her texts complemented by amusing humor.
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