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Tuesday
Jun292010

From Wife-Beater to Tank Top

How did this symbol of abuse become one of America's most beloved garments?  And is it really a garment or is it just lingerie?

The sleeveless shirt gets the name the wife-beater from Marlo Brando's character Stan Kowalski in the play and movie A Street Car Called Desire.  He abuses his wife while wearing a stained and ripped tank top.

But the name "tank top" is from the men's tank suit, a bathing suit that resembles the tank top.

A tank top would not be worn out beofre the 90s.  You could be thrown out for wearing what was considered "underwear".

But is it really something that can be worn out?  If you are at the gym, women are always wearing racerbacks.  If you are at the mall, teenagers are wearing graphic tanks.  In New York, posh women wear them with Prada painted skirts.

But wear are they really appropriate.  In my opinion, a tank top is not for the workplace.  Nor a fancy event.  But when I work out, I think that a tank top is a good choice.  If I am at the beach or on vacation, I wear tank tops  If I was having a lazy Sunday I would wear a tank top.

But your choice is up to you. 

I don't think that there is a more controversial article of clothing.  But fashion, as displayed by this dispute, is very important in many respects.

 

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Reader Comments (6)

Congratulations, Raina! This is an excellent piece of writing and I share your opinion on the best times and places for tank tops! I am looking forward to your next missive! Liz

June 30, 2010 | Unregistered CommenterLiz Evans

Fascinating, Raina, well-done! I learned a lot by reading it.
More power to you,

-Renee

June 30, 2010 | Unregistered CommenterRenee

Congrats on your launch, IVV! You may consider some cross-pollination with ANOTHER Kesher fashion blog ... Outfitted by Alli. I'll introduce you two at shul.

June 30, 2010 | Unregistered CommenterDSloanDC

Great writing job Raina! And I loove the choice of topics.
Marina (Ava's mom)

July 1, 2010 | Unregistered CommenterMarina Fradlin

Great job with the blog. My cousin sent it to me and I have been sending to all of my friends. I love it!

November 7, 2010 | Unregistered Commentermcf


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