Despite his most determined efforts, he fails. Corsets pushed up breasts which the bare-shouldered gowns exposed. Initially considered improper because of the way couples clutched each other as they twirled rapidly, the waltz was intrinsically erotic. Yet, neither had done anything improper. What is most surprising is not that, in an era when fashion first came into its own in America, that exhibitionism and voyeurism became key elements in courting rituals.
Fashion is about exhibitionism.
And exhibitionism requires voyeurism. These last were, to be sure, raised. But, often enough, they were hooted down. This certainly was the fate of the Rev. Mr. Smythe, here pilloried in Harper's Weekly , who sought to lead a crusade against the scanty costumes of ballet dancers. He sought to protect the public morals only to find himself accused of hypocrisy.