Perfume, a gift that, according to the pre-war press, every woman will appreciate.
Helpless men, just like today, were helped by the press. And so the Krakow's Światowid, in its edition of December 17, 1927, devoted a full-page article to Christmas gifts for women. As this year was marked by economic prosperity, a magazine aimed at the middle class began listing gifts with a high "c" - furs and jewelry. An IKC journalist wrote directly:
Of course, the nicest, most sophisticated Christmas gift is always a gem especially that it should be noted that the fashion of fake jewelery is about to end. Again, real diamonds and precious stones regain their former power.
A perfume, a gift that, according to the pre-war press, every woman would appreciate.
As for fur, the author remarked with disarming frankness:
Of course, every lady, even if she already had a fur coat, would be happy to see another fur coat or fur cape. And such a fashionable fur cape, a beautiful black fox, or blue or white, aren't these beautiful and practical gifts at the same time?
Fur, jewelry, perfume, or maybe elegant shoes? The pre-war gentleman had a lot of room to show off in terms of gifts for his beloved. Of course, if he had a big wallet.
Airy jumpsuit, lovely T-shirt
Of course, "Światowid" did not leave men with a slightly less affluent wallet out in the cold, recalling that perfumes, a powder box, a handbag, a manicure briefcase are small things that can be given to every woman. And even those with whom was too close and confidential.
On the other hand, when choosing a gift for the only one - according to the newspaper - one could be tempted with a refined drunk, a charming nightgown, or an airy combinaison. In addition, it was in good taste to buy shoes, especially golden or silver ball slippers . Speaking of balls, one cannot forget about the fan of ostrich or peacock feathers, which, according to the editor, was also a perfect gift.
According to the journalist from Światowid, gentlemen who could not afford expensive jewels and furs could give their loved ones a breeze of combinaison or fashionable pajamas.
Two years later, when the Great Depression settled down in Poland for good, the purchase of gifts became of course a much bigger problem. It did not go unnoticed by the journalist from "Światowida", who no longer advised the purchase of furs and jewels, emphasizing that sometimes a small, but tasteful and useful little thing will bring more joy than a very expensive gift.
Beautiful cut crystal suit
So what could a woman buy in difficult times to be satisfied after all? According to the weekly each will gladly accept a refined crystal bottle a suit made of beautifully cut crystal for vodka or wine, or some porcelain trinket to decorate the apartment.
If the sweetheart liked tobacco products, it was a good idea to make her pleasures with a nice cigarette case, a silver lighter or an effective cigarette case. As a last resort, when the finances of the pre-war gentleman were in really poor condition, he should buy a nice book in a nice cover .
During the Great Depression, few could afford expensive gifts. Cheaper but more practical gifts have become fashionable. "Światowid" recommended, for example, cigarette cases, silver lighters or crocodile leather travel sets.
A brush case made of crocodile leather
The tendency to combine business with pleasure was also present on the pages of the weekly before Christmas 1930. This time, the gift ideas included a number of travel accessories:a brush case, a cigarette case, a cigarette case and a lighter, all made of crocodile leather. The offering was fine elegant evening shoes and gloves, adorned with the same pattern of colored leather. You can it was also safe to give the woman a fashionable yarn scarf.
The noticeable improvement in the country's economic situation in the second half of the 1930s meant that the middle class could again afford a bit of extravagance when planning Christmas gifts. Expensive jewelry and furs have returned to favor. However, a new trend has emerged - buying ladies' novelties in the field of household items, such as electric cookers or even teapots.
The second half of the 1930s brought a fashion for gifts in the form of household items.
Refrigerators, which were a hit in Poland, also became popular, though not necessarily handy, gifts. Ladies - according to the opinion-forming weekly "Bluszcz" - also did not despise modern and elegant radio receivers, because: Radio is undoubtedly the type of gift that will bring a lot of sincere pleasure, regardless of gender or age. Just like tablets and mobile phones today.
Sources:
- "Światowid" 1927, 1929, 1930, 1937.
- "Ivy" 1937.