This week’s From the Archives looks back at fashion on Grounds over the years. From 1950s fashion shows to 2000s tie controversies, we explore how students dress, act and express themselves.
1950s
Feb. 21, 1951
“Spring Fashions At Madison Hall”
By unlisted author
The University’s Cavalier Ladies are hosting a spring fashion show at Madison Hall at 8:30 p.m. The show will start with a display of trending ladies’ and children’s styles from local Charlottesville boutiques and lead to the main event — the unveiling of a spring bride and accompanying bridesmaids. Tickets cost $0.50 at the door or may be purchased beforehand and attendees may enjoy refreshments at the show.
1960s
Sept. 1, 1961
“The Well-Dressed University Student”
By unlisted author
Photos by unlisted photographer
Students of the University generally adhere to a long-standing tradition of neat conservatism when it comes to their attire. While suits are not as common, students wear coats and ties in public, with variations dependent on season and occasion. For newer students it is easy and not costly to fit in with the culture of Grounds — as long as they dress in a neat manner with good taste.
1970s
Sept. 3, 1975
“The Making of the Wahoo ‘75”
By Fred Heblich
Illustration by unlisted artist
This humorous article shares that at U.Va. a “correct wardrobe” is believed to be integral to a successful career, scoring points among faculty. The author catalogs the four essentials for a proper Virginia gentleman — several three-piece suits accompanied by a fashionable tie, a pocket flask and an umbrella. For the ladies, he adds, “an apron” would be appropriate as well.
1980s
August 30, 1983
“Prepping out still emphasized, punk, new wave also well-liked”
By unlisted author
Photos by Rose Kennedy
Local fashion outlets discuss enduring styles and popular attire in university life. However, merchants also note an increase in sales of more adventurous, new-wave items, showcasing a growing student interest in alternative fashion. Merchants found that many students also opt to blend traditional, preppy basics with punk elements.
1990s
March 28, 1996
“UTS drivers put new spin on University student fashions”
By Leonard McCants
Photos by Leonard McCants
Bus drivers at the University wear clothes that are unlike the preppy, traditional style of the students. Gothic, second-hand and euro-hippie styles are much more common among the group. UTS Transportation Manager Evan Kittredge’s flexibility when it comes to their work uniforms allows the drivers to express themselves to their liking.
2000s
Sept. 7, 2004
“Traditional values, traditional dress”
By Jim Prosser
Photos by Brian Gewalt
Opinion columnist Jim Prosser argues that the “sea of orange” attire proposed by Virginia Football Coach Al Groh is a detriment to the University football experience. He cites the numerous other universities in the Atlantic Coast Conference that use orange as a color, including Virginia Tech, and the fact that no other university in the ACC has the tradition of wearing ties. Prosser also points out the versatility of a nice tie, while there are only limited occasions to wear orange t-shirts and they can’t be worn to interviews or formals. He also refutes the idea that ties constrict movement with a “very scientific test” — imitating the “bourbon-aided cheers” released at games.
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