Clothes Hangers: From Business Tool to Consumer Convenience, 1852-1936

Abstract

Clothes hangers came into use in the United States in the late nineteenth century as a tool for apparel businesses to use in display, inventory management, and promotion of apparel. Hangers and related fixtures expedited dramatic changes in retail practices-including the trend toward self-service and detailed inventory records. Dry cleaners also utilized hangers as they developed their services in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Owners and employees of such businesses patented many of the types of hangers in use to the present day. Business adopters of hangers helped to persuade consumers to switch from folded to hanging storage by the 1920s. This exemplified American enthusiasm for systematic management of their homes and represented a "lifestyle" change inaugurated by retailers.