Cigarette holder

Dalton and Cleo Trumbo (1947 HUAC hearings)

Where there's smoke there's fire by Russell Patterson crop

Cigarette holder is a fashion accessory that, as the name suggests, holds a cigarette for the smoker to use. This allows the smoker to smoke the cigarette without having to hold it with their fingers. The use of cigarette holders dates back to the late 19th century and became particularly popular in the early 20th century, often associated with the upper class and with a certain level of sophistication and elegance.

History

The history of the cigarette holder is closely tied to the history of smoking and the societal changes that came with it. Initially, cigarette holders were used primarily by women, as they were considered a stylish accessory that also helped to keep their fingers from smelling like smoke. Over time, they became popular among men as well, especially in the upper echelons of society. The cigarette holder became a symbol of status, elegance, and refinement.

Types

There are several types of cigarette holders, ranging from practical designs to more elaborate, decorative ones. They can be made from a variety of materials including ivory, silver, gold, and even crystal or glass. Some common types include:

• Standard Holders: These are the most common type, designed for regular use. They can be telescopic or fixed length.
• Opera Holders: Longer than standard holders, opera holders were traditionally used by women in formal settings. They can extend up to several inches.
• Filtered Holders: These holders have a built-in filter to reduce tar and nicotine intake. They are chosen for health reasons as well as for style.
• Art Deco Holders: Popular in the 1920s and 1930s, these feature geometric designs and are often made of precious metals and stones.

Cultural Significance

Cigarette holders have been immortalized in popular culture, often associated with the glamour of old Hollywood, the Roaring Twenties, and iconic figures such as Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's. They symbolize a bygone era of elegance and are often used in films and literature to denote sophistication or a certain aloofness.

Health Aspects

While cigarette holders were once thought to offer health benefits by distancing the smoke from the smoker's lungs and filtering it, they do not significantly reduce the health risks associated with smoking. The best way to reduce these risks is to quit smoking altogether.

Modern Use

Today, cigarette holders are less common but are still used by some as a personal style statement or in performances and costumes to evoke a certain era. They are also collected as antiques and can be found in museums and private collections.

See Also

• Smoking culture
• Tobacco pipe
• Cigar
• Fashion accessory