Life — June 21, 1929 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This is a fashion cover illustration rather than political satire. The caption "What the Smart Young Woman Will Wear" indicates it's a style commentary for contemporary readers. The drawing depicts a fashionable woman in 1920s attire: a geometric, architectural hat (characteristic of late-1920s design), a dark jacket with dramatic styling, and a flowing skirt. She carries roses and what appears to be a diploma or scroll, suggesting the "smart young woman" is both educated and fashionable. This reflects the "flapper" era and post-suffrage women's culture—when women gained voting rights (1920) and greater social freedom. The illustration celebrates modern, independent femininity for the emerging generation. The 10¢ price tag indicates this was affordable popular media aimed at middle-class audiences.