Theory and Dress Scholarship: A Discussion on Developing & Applying Theory

Research and Theory Trends in Historic Dress and Textiles Research

“…This sentiment is aptly reflected in Farrell-Beck’s 1998 observation that because “particularism is inherent in history writing,” the sorts of abstract, theoretical generalizations that may work well in other fields “often fail in history” (p. 5). In recent years, however, HDT scholars have reevaluated the potential value of theory to HDT research, recognizing that that there are varied, legitimate ways of using theory to enrich HDT scholarship (see Pedersen, 2007; Pedersen, Buckland, & Bates, 2008–2009).…”

“…Perhaps the most common way in which theory has been utilized within HDT research is through the development of what Pedersen has called “unnamed mini theories” (2007; Pedersen et al, 2008–2009). Here, researchers begin with a research question and inductively develop relational statements or arguments that link concepts as a means by which to explain and interpret a given topic in dress or textile history.…”

“…Here, researchers begin with a research question and inductively develop relational statements or arguments that link concepts as a means by which to explain and interpret a given topic in dress or textile history. In turn, these relational statements form the basis for theory development (Pedersen, 2007; Pedersen et al, 2008–2009). According to Pedersen (2007), unnamed mini theories serve the same functions as named theories (e.g., description, explanation, prediction), but often go overlooked due to the training that scholars receive to recognize and use “named” theories.…”

“…This is not to say that HDT scholars begin their research with the aim of deductively testing an existing theory. Rather, HDT researchers “adduce” answers to their research questions by drawing upon existing theory as evidence to support their interpretations of their data (Pedersen et al, 2008–2009). Such an approach can advance theory development (e.g., if data suggest a modification to a theory) and establish connections between HDT research and that undertaken in other disciplines (Pedersen et al, 2008–2009).…”

L. Candee & Co. and the U.S. Rubber Shoe Industry

“…Although the model was created to aid entrepreneurial business development, it has the potential to help describe and explain L. Candee & Co.'s actions and to explore the relationships between the company and elements of the business life-cycle model. Identifying these relationships can contribute toward future model and theory development (Pedersen et al, 2008).…”