This striking black-and-white photograph, taken in Blantyre, Scotland, by photographer David Ritchie is of his own children in 1914. It captured a group of five women and all these years later offers a fascinating window into Edwardian-era fashion just before the First World War.
Having written about this family previously, I recognise Jessie, Kate, Minnie and Lizzie, (though I’ve forgotten the name of the other woman) and from their estimated ages have attempted to date the photo.
The women’s attire is distinctly Edwardian, showcasing long, high-necked dresses with intricate detailing and full sleeves—styles that balanced modesty, femininity, and practicality. The standing women wear dark gowns, possibly black or navy, which were fashionable and appropriate for formal or public appearances. Their dresses feature decorative pleats, lace panels, and embellishments at the collar and cuffs—common features in pre-war women’s fashion. Long beaded necklaces further suggest respectable middle-class taste.
The younger, seated girl in white, who I think is Kate Ritchie, is dressed more simply, perhaps indicating a confirmation outfit or Sunday best, contrasting with the sombre tones of the others. Large bows in the hair, as seen on both younger and older girls, were a popular trend at the time.
In 1914, women in communities like Blantyre were increasingly involved in local associations, church groups, and organisations such as the Scottish Mothers’ Union, which I explored the other day on this page, which promoted Christian values and family life. These women may have been connected to such a group or another community initiative. Their fairly serious expressions and formal posture reflect the era’s photographic conventions, where smiling was uncommon in portraits, though the hints of smiles, would indicate this was not a funeral.
This moment was captured on the brink of global upheaval. Just months after this image was likely taken, the First World War began—an event that would soon reshape the roles of women in Scottish society, pulling many into the workforce and volunteer roles, and later paving the way for the suffrage movement.
With thanks to Alex Bowie for this photo.
