These Were the Popular Christmas Gifts 70 Years Ago
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December 12, 2017This collection of Macy’s best-selling holiday gifts of 1948, compiled by LIFE magazine shows use just how much things have changed since then.
For starters, the gifts then skewed more toward the practical. A pair of nylons or a ballpoint pen were Macy's third- and fourth-highest-selling items that season. Second, there is a conspicuous absence of gadgets or anything technological.
Then again, the rise of personal technology was still decades away, as these were the days when fewer than 10% of households even had a TV set. Rather than gadgets, gift-givers wrapped up objects that were wearable or edible, and immediately usable: a pair of pajamas, a bottle of scotch or a pair of sturdy slippers. Basic but sure to be put to frequent use.
Best Selling Christmas Gifts - Napkins and cards
Best Selling Christmas Gifts - Napkins and cards
Best Selling Christmas Gifts- Lace stockings
Best Selling Christmas Gifts- Pen w/ paper
Best Selling Christmas Gifts- Boxers on model bust
Best Selling Christmas Gifts- Socks
Best Selling Christmas Gifts- Socks
Best Selling Christmas Gifts- Pressed Shirt
Best Selling Christmas Gifts- York House Wine
Best Selling Christmas Gifts- Pearl Necklace
Best Selling Christmas Gifts- Boxers
Best Selling Christmas Gifts- Red Tie
Best Selling Christmas Gifts- Lacquered items
Best Selling Christmas Gifts- Purses
Best Selling Christmas Gifts- Tin Cans
Best Selling Christmas Gifts- Peephole shoes
Best Selling Christmas Gifts- Box
Best Selling Christmas Gifts- Strauss Waltze book