Aprons: A Symbol of Domesticity and Empowerment
Aprons carry a wide range of associations, from professional cooks and TV cooking show contestants to special occasions and family heirlooms. They evoke memories, put the focus on the cook, and provide a sense of empowerment.
Personal Connections
Deborah Reinhardt, a food blogger from St. Louis, has fond memories of her mother and grandmother cooking in aprons dusted with flour or other signs of that day’s meal. Her daughter gave her a special gift one Mother’s Day: a frilly apron. Whenever Reinhardt uses it, memories of her mother and grandmother come alive, making her feel like she can tackle anything in the kitchen.
Professional Aprons
Professional cooks and contestants on TV cooking shows often wear large, utilitarian aprons. Grill masters might wear goofy “BBQ Dad” varieties, while aprons worn by professionals like cooks, bakers, fishmongers, welders, and carpenters serve as “domestic armor,” according to EllynAnne Geisel, a self-described “apron archaeologist.”
Current Apron Styles
Katie Brown, a writer at Food & Wine, notes that many of her favorite cooking shows feature chefs wearing aprons from Hedley and Bennett, a brand started by a pro chef. The “Essential” apron is made of sturdy cotton twill and features adjustable neck and waist straps and multiple pockets.
Other Pro-Style Brands
Other pro-style brands include Under NY Sky, Chef Works, Bragard, and Cargo Crew.
Apron Variations Around the World
Japanese Maekake
Christopher Kimball’s Milk Street nods to Japanese restaurants with the maekake, a traditional Japanese workwear dating back to the 16th century. Milk Street’s version features an Arctic tern and the Japanese lettering for their address in Boston.
Finnish Design House Marimekko
Fans of Marimekko’s prints might add an apron to their wardrobe. Choose from bold, black-and-white, or colorful graphics and florals, each with a front pocket and adjustable neck strap. Many patterns have coordinating pot holders and oven mitts.
Portugalia Marketplace
Portugalia Marketplace offers an apron with colorful illustrations of sardine cans, a buzzy food trend. Another option features a Mediterranean blue and white tile-patterned apron, reminiscent of a tasca, or little restaurant, in Porto.
Design Imports
Design Imports features aprons with charming fabric prints of romping dogs and cats.
Retro Aprons
Pinafore or Flour Sack
Aprons became common in the early 1900s, when America’s first chain restaurant, Harvey House, was created by Fred Harvey. The “Harvey Girls” wore floor-length white aprons, which became popular in American households.
Flour Sack Aprons
Flour companies in the 1920s came out with aprons made from repurposed feed or flour sacks. Uncommon Goods has some fun ones repurposed from old sacks and made by artisans in Ghana. The aprons feature a cheery patchwork on one side and are reversible.
Conclusion
Aprons are a symbol of domesticity and empowerment, evoking memories and putting the focus on the cook. Whether you prefer a classic design or a unique, globally-inspired print, there’s an apron out there for you.
FAQs
Q: What are some popular apron brands?
A: Hedley and Bennett, Under NY Sky, Chef Works, Bragard, and Cargo Crew are some popular pro-style brands.
Q: What is a maekake?
A: A maekake is a traditional Japanese workwear dating back to the 16th century, often worn by cooks and chefs.
Q: Where can I find retro-style aprons?
A: Uncommon Goods, Milk Street, and other online retailers offer retro-style aprons, including pinafore and flour sack designs.
Q: Can I personalize my apron?
A: Yes, some apron brands, like Minted, offer customization options, including personalized name tags.
