I really like the idea of using historic clothing as the basis of anti-terrorist attack clothing--panniers, stomachers--the History Channel on the west side of the pond recently ran a program on advances in protective gear for armed services. Sad that we have to even consider such for civilians, but we might as well keep a sense of humor, however dark, about it, and a sense of fashion. Panniers or hoop skirts, especially could conceal a myriad of aids to help one during a terrorist attack. You could custom outfit yourself to fit your own situation like a giant Swiss Army knife.
I recall one New York woman a month or so after 9-11 remarking: "Ok, I've got my special parachute as I live and work in tall buildings, my gas mask, AK-47 and all of my shots, including anthrax. Am I missing anything?" Sure, I have to admit that I'm afraid of some sort of terrorist attack, by some idealist domestic or foreign. But my chances of getting robbed, hit by a car while crossing the street, or contracting a serious illness are much higher every day. And I'm sure some violent idealist somewhere would like to attack Omaha Nebraska where I live, since we are near the home of the Strategic Air Command. The terrorists we fear today are no different than those with idealists throughout history who have believed that killing the innocent is necessary in order to obtain their idea of Utopia, so that all must believe as they believe or else. The sad thing is today's violent idealist turned terrorist has much better weapons. Unbelievably sad that one of the subway bombings took place right in a Muslim neighborhood. At least one Muslim woman is missing. Didn't the British during the Blitz manufacture gas masks in fashionable shades, BTW? On a lighter note, a friend of mine is in the process of planning a possible trip to Scotland, perhaps as early as the fall, and would appreciate info on shops that carry unique fabrics as she is a quilter and doll costumer. I, and some of the gals in our doll-making class, are planning to give her some purchase commissions as well. We know about Scottish tartans, wools, and tweeds--but are their other fabrics unique or popular in Scotland, not known to the non-fabricholic? Thanks much. Cindy Abel _______________________________________________ h-costume mailing list [email protected] http://mail.indra.com/mailman/listinfo/h-costume
