Gym suit
c. 1900
Black wool and red cotton
Museum purchase
Object numberP84.22.1
The loose-fitting “bloomer” trouser was first widely publicized as dress reform in 1851 by namesake Amelia Bloomer, though she herself was not its inventor. Americans mercilessly ridiculed the bloomer, however, and it was ultimately unsuccessful. Yet it became standard for women’s active sportswear nearly half a century later, as promotion of health and physical activity for women increased.
DescriptionBlack wool twill gym suit with white braid; V-neckline; sailor collar with braid trim and red cotton kerchief ties at front; back bodice with inverted box pleat at center waist; long sleeves with tucks at cap and braid trimmed turn back cuffs; front bodice with concealed center button closing and gathers at center waist; attached self belt; below the knee length bloomers attached along back waistband, with elasticized cuffs, flap front waist opening, and no side seamCollections
Exhibitions