Abbots Phit-Eesi
1897
Dudley Hardy’s 1897 poster for 'Abbotts Phit-Eesi' boots is a masterclass in Victorian advertising, using a clever rear-view perspective to make sure you look at the footwear first. The scene features three fashionable figures—a man in a checkered suit, a woman with a bold red parasol, and a top-hatted gentleman—along with a small dog, all strutting away from the viewer. The playful phonetic spelling 'Phit-Eesi' (Fit Easy) promises comfort, while the bold yellow typography and flat colors showcase the influence of the Art Nouveau style sweeping through London at the time. It’s a charming snapshot of 1890s street fashion that proves shoe commercials have always been about lifestyle.
- Technique
- Color lithograph
Views: 7