Well, recycling old clothes to the current fashion has been done throughout history. I think it's due to the post-WWII consumerism that we're not used to it the way our ancestors were.
Whether something is thrown out or worn to rags, it's gone. I think what vexes many historians is when a garment is dormant for 20 or more years (stored) and *then* worn to rags or thrown out. Sometimes it's a fashion trend (inspired by a period movie, for example) and sometimes it's an individual's interest. The only way to "prevent" such things is to buy and preserve vintage clothing yourself and support museums that do the same. It's all supply and demand. Personally, I also cringe at an item that has been altered, or an extant gown where someone has cut off the entire placket for the buttons (rather than removing them individually). I once bought a 1920s dress for $5 where the dealer said only the lace was worth saving — after a careful washing and light pressing the entire thing was in great shape. Also there are many people who can reproduce a garment or style (out of fresh, new, isn't-going-to-shatter fabric), but some customers would rather take their chances with a $50 vintage item than pay $250 for a repro. -Carol _______________________________________________ h-costume mailing list h-costume@mail.indra.com http://mail.indra.com/mailman/listinfo/h-costume