Zip

In 1893 William Litcomb Judson from Chicago patented a fastening system with hooks that could be quickly opened and closed with a clasp. In 1913 a Swede, Gideon Sundback, perfected Judson’s invention, making a zipper with metal teeth. Initially it was only used for belts with a hidden purse or tobacco pouches. The term “zip” was coined by B.G. Worth for a quick fastening system that was then in vogue for footwear. At the beginning of the 1930s the designer Elsa Schiaparelli was the first to use this accessory without hiding it under fabric. Halfway through the 20^th century the zip was perfected and substituted button flies for men’s pants.