Picture New York City in 1928, a bustling metropolis on a rainy day with the tem

Picture New York City in 1928, a bustling metropolis on a rainy day with the temperature at a mild 24°C (75°F). The city, full of Art Deco architecture and soaring skyscrapers, is enveloped in a steady downpour, with raindrops drumming against the pavement and bouncing off the steel and stone structures that define the skyline. The strong wind whips through the streets, causing umbrellas to turn inside out and people to clutch their coats tightly around them as they hurry along the slick sidewalks. The streets are a sea of dark, muted colors as most New Yorkers are dressed to stay dry and comfortable in the rain. Men are clad in trench coats or wool overcoats, their lapels turned up against the wind. Many wear felt fedoras or flat caps, which are pulled low to shield their faces from the rain. Their leather shoes, polished but now damp, are sturdy and designed to endure the wet conditions, with some opting for rubber galoshes to protect their footwear from the elements. Women are dressed in stylish, knee-length coats made of wool or gabardine, often belted at the waist for a sleek silhouette. Their hats, cloche styles for many, are practical yet fashionable, sitting snugly on their heads to protect their carefully styled hair from the rain. Some women carry compact umbrellas, but many are forced to battle with the strong wind, holding their umbrellas tightly to prevent them from being blown away. On their feet, they wear sensible low-heeled shoes or boots, often with rubber overshoes to keep their feet dry. The sidewalks are crowded with people moving quickly, heads down to avoid the rain splashing in their faces. The wind howls between the tall buildings, making the rain seem to come from all directions, and puddles form in the uneven cobblestones and asphalt, reflecting the shimmering lights of the city. Street vendors huddle under awnings, trying to protect their goods from the rain, while doormen in long coats and caps help usher people in and out of building