The "Don't" example model is on the left; the "Do" lady is on the right
Would you believe that in 1937, one Allan Gilbert founded "Gilbert’s School of Undressing" in Manhattan? The institution of higher learning instructed women on how to undress for their husbands, with the claim that removing their clothing in an unattractive manner destroyed marriages.
The linked excerpt from Life magazine documents some of Gilbert's insights. Such a school must have been desperately needed, as this concern was right up there with all of the pressing, post-depression, pre-war issues of the day. Instructing wives on how to properly undress was crucial.
I wonder if Gilbert shared any tips for husbands as to their behavior when their wives showed off this newfound expertise? "Sit back in silk pajamas and a smoking jacket with a pre-strip, wife-mixed cocktail in hand," perhaps? I'm looking forward to that lost article being unearthed.
In the meantime, enjoy these wifely strip tips. (I would call the photos SFW, but be warned that some of the lady parts are just barely covered.)
Images: LIFE magazine via Vintage Everyday
“Nightgown technique is the high point in the Gilbert course. Here Miss St. Clair adroitly gets into her nightgown and drops her lingerie all in one magic motion."
“A prime principle of artful undressing is to keep the hands graceful at all times. Here Miss Fonzlau clearly demonstrates what a knot some women make of their clothes.”