May 1942. "Arlington, Virginia. Auto refinishing plant. Mechanical paint mixer." 4x5 inch acetate negative by John Collier for the Office of War Information.
Hello, In the old public beach areas, one would see all kinds of portable changing “things.” It was safer than heading to the public restrooms with wet floors and who knows what, lingering everywhere. Changing behind open doors of a car or station wagon is always cause for an “indecent exposure” ticket by the lurking, strolling, local police patrols. San Onofre Surf Club parking lot in the 50s... Camp Pendleton property... So, what is one to do? Big towels wrapped around the body was tried, but the tight fitting wrapped towels did not allow room to move much. For car owners, the big swinging door opened and a towel being held up, while changing was the fastest, if you did not mind being Au Naturel and your companion standing right there. The B/W beach photo with the two ladies gabbing away was one way to change and still have room to move while talking a mile a minute. Jnaki But these days, surf company manufacturers have come up with their modern versions that are a little more stylish and fits right into the beach sand scene, without disturbing other beach goers. A simple drop and change, all while the cotton towel is drying off whatever. No mess, no fuss and no ticket for indecent exposure. Anytime, anywhere and no awful public restroom odors or awful mess on the floors. YRMV Even, extra large for those that need more room. A cotton towel "hoodie" for total coverup in this beach situation. And, you will not look like the circus is coming to town on the sand while changing in those tubes. Or, have to deal with the consistent winds blowing into the shoreline as most winds do after lunch at most beaches. YRMV
The Jalopy Journal
