The details of this ancestor’s elaborate feather-and flowertrimmed hat displaying the distinctive ‘gateau’ shape whereby the width of the crown matches that of the brim, represents a style fashionable chiefly 1906-1910.
Photodating puzzle
This image has a firm date on the back. Study the clues: which year, or circa era is it? Compare your skills with the answer on page 80. (No peeking until you’re ready to find the answer!).
The details of her ensemble help to pin down the date of her image. Her floor-length skirt is full, the flounced hem characteristic of much of the early-1900s.
Jayne Shrimpton is a professional dress historian and ‘photo detective’, photograph consultant for TV series ‘Who Do You Think You Are?’ and her books include ‘Tracing Your Ancestors Through Family Photographs’. jayneshrimpton.co.uk