Aprons were an essential item of protective dress for women doing housework in the 1940s. They were functional garments, protecting delicate clothing during cooking and washing up. Women's magazines frequently pictured housewives wearing such aprons in advertisements for domestic appliances. For everyday use, aprons would normally have been plainer than this one, which was made by the donor's mother to be worn only when guests were expected, being regarded as too pretty for everyday wear. This apron illustrates the sewing skills of Audrey Crago, a housewife with decorative flair, perhaps also indicating that women at home had time to spend on sewing and needed to make things themselves because of the cost of buying.

Aprons went out of fashion after the 1950s, partly due to the availability of washing machines and cheaper clothing.

Peter Cox
Curator
June, 2010

Machine and hand-sewn by donor's grandmother Audrey Crago (nee Fay), after she was married in 1940, before she had her first baby in 1942.

Worn by donor's grandmother Audrey Crago (nee Fay), from the early 1940s. Audrey was a housewife who did not engage in other work. She employed a maid for some years and made other aprons for the maid to wear, along with a cap and bib front. However Audrey made this coloured apron to wear herself. Such pretty aprons were often used when guests were expected and usually removed and replaced by ordinary aprons for everyday wear.

Apron, cotton, made and used by Audrey Crago, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia, 1940-1942

Handmade cotton apron with pocket and decorative elements, tying at the waist, Red and white checked gingham, gathered at the waist by three rows of smocking, forming a frill above the waist band. The waist tie is attached in one piece across the back of the waist. A single pocket, with smocking at the top sewn on the front at the side. The apron is edged with white rick-a-rack braid. Some staining and discolouration in the middle of the apron.

Made: Crago, Audrey; Sydney, New South Wales; 1940 - 1942

Used: Crago, Audrey; Sydney, New South Wales; 1940 - 1942

No marks.

2010/50/1

1940 - 1942

410 mm

740 mm