Wooly - Bull-y

Prior to the 1920s, the idea of going to the beach and actually getting into the water to swim was still relatively new. Functionality in swimwear was not as important as fashion, so the prevailing theory was that wool would help keep you warm.  Unfortunately unless treated wool absorbs water and it was extremely difficult to move (float).

From: Victoriana Magazine:  History of Swimwear:

The early 1800s marked the beginning of a revolution in swimwear when women flocked to the beaches for seaside recreation. An 1810 fashion magazine describes the proper attire:

Fashionable Sea-Side Walking Dress - La Belle Assemblee Fashions, Sept 1810 "A gown of white French cambric, or pale pink muslin, with long sleeves, and antique cuffs of thin white muslin worn over trowsers of white French cambric, which are trimmed the same as the bottom of the dress. A figured short scarf of pale buff, with deep pale-green border, and rich silk tassels; with gloves of pale buff kid; and sandals of pale yellow, or white Morocco, complete this truly simple but becoming dress."

But...............did they get wet?  Even the toes?



I love this photo:  from  Keeppy: history of swimming


so young, so happy, so modern.

Contact:  thephotoquilter.com for an informative  and fun program about the history of textiles.