Bizarre Vintage Jobs That No Longer Exist (And for Good Reason!)

Cigarette Girl

Cigarette girls were once a staple of glamorous nightclubs, speakeasies, and theaters in the early 20th century. Dressed in eye-catching uniforms and carrying trays of tobacco products, they wandered among patrons selling cigarettes, cigars, and even chewing gum. These women were expected to be flirty, charming, and always smiling—part salesperson, part entertainment.

Despite the allure, it wasn’t a safe or empowering job. Many cigarette girls faced harassment, low pay, and the health hazards of working in smoky, alcohol-fueled environments. As public smoking bans, feminism, and changing attitudes toward tobacco emerged, this odd blend of service and spectacle faded into cultural history.

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