Medium: Cotton pique

Date: c.1895

Country: USA

Credit: Museum purchase

This charming ensemble features a “middy” style blouse, which was named after a naval garment worn by midshipmen. Children were first dressed in sailor suits in the mid-nineteenth century, and the style also became fashionable for women’s sport and leisure activities. Lightweight, washable fabrics and simple embellishments characterized the readily mass-produced designs.

Object Number: P84.25.2