Looking for an old definition.

April 22, 2016 5:40 PM

What does 'trimming' refer to in terms of a "dry goods and trimming" store?

What distinguishes a "dry goods" store from one that is a "dry goods and trimming" store?
And are trimmings ribbons and lace, or something else?

For example, see for example:

" N Ezekiel, dry goods and trimming; ___ Lyele, dry goods; "

Thanks for your help.

posted by Tristram Shandy, Gentleman to Society & Culture (5 answers total)

Best answer: Yes, ribbons and lace and piping and that sort of thing.
posted by amro at 5:50 PM on April 22, 2016 [2 favorites]

Best answer: Trim as in decorative edging for fabrics (fringe, velvet, satin, etc.).
posted by Scram at 5:51 PM on April 22, 2016 [2 favorites]

Response by poster: Thank you!
posted by Tristram Shandy, Gentleman at 5:52 PM on April 22, 2016

Rick rack is an example. My mother had this in her sewing basket, although I don't have a clear memory of any garment with it applied.

"Notions" is a related term in American English.
posted by Bruce H. at 7:33 PM on April 22, 2016

My 2x great grandmother was a milliner (hat maker) in Richmond in the 1860s so I agree with the above mentions: ribbon, notions, assorted fabric supplies. Everyone wore hats then if they went out at all - day or night. Women who could afford it would go to milliners and dressmakers; women on a tighter budget would buy fabric and trimmings from the Dry Goods store and make their own dresses and hats.
posted by mulcahy at 8:50 PM on April 22, 2016 [1 favorite]