The Wasp — 1896 — page 238: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This cartoon depicts two men in exaggerated spring fashions—one wearing an extremely wide, striped suit and the other in formal dark dress with an unusual silhouette. The dialogue reads: "Well, sir, and what new tomfoolery is this, I'd like to know?" with the response "My spring up-to-date suit—all the rage, this season." The satire mocks men's fashion trends, specifically the absurdly baggy or ill-fitting styles that were apparently fashionable in spring. The caption suggests these new styles are ridiculous "tomfoolery" despite being current rage among fashionable dressers, likely at Burlingame (a location known for wealthy residents). The exaggerated illustration emphasizes how impractical and unflattering these garments appear compared to traditional tailoring.