The 1930s were marked by the Great Depression, a severe economic downturn that affected millions of people worldwide. Despite the hardships, the decade saw the emergence of a new kind of glamour and sophistication, thanks in part to the influence of Hollywood movies. Women in the 1930s looked up to silver screen icons like Marlene Dietrich, Greta Garbo, and Bette Davis – all of whom were often seen smoking cigarettes, both on and off screen.
Unlike the flappers of the 1920s, women of the 1930s embraced a more refined and elegant style. Cigarette smoking was no longer a symbol of rebellion but had transformed into an emblem of sophistication, charm, and allure. The way women held their cigarettes and took a drag became an art form, a display of grace and poise that was admired and emulated by many.
Tobacco companies continued to target female consumers, creating ads that played on the themes of glamour and sophistication. The ads often featured elegant, well-dressed women enjoying a cigarette, suggesting that smoking was an essential part of a fashionable lifestyle. Even the packaging of cigarettes became more luxurious, with brands like Lucky Strike introducing sleek and stylish tins that appealed to women’s sense of style.
One of the most iconic symbols of women smoking in the 1930s was the elegant and elongated cigarette holder. These stylish accessories were not only practical – keeping the smoke and ash away from a woman’s face and clothing – but also added an air of sophistication and glamour. As a result, the cigarette holder became an indispensable accessory for fashionable women of the time.
The health risks associated with smoking were still not widely known or understood. Cigarettes were often marketed as being beneficial to one’s health, with some ads even claiming that smoking could soothe a sore throat or alleviate stress.
It’s a fascinating glimpse into a time when glamour, elegance, and sophistication were highly valued, and the way women presented themselves was an important part of their identity. Here are some fabulous photos of women with cigarettes from the 1930s.
