65 Adorable Kid's Outfits of the Past
- Category: History of Craft
- Practices: Cutting & Sewing
The evolution of children's fashion is no less interesting than the history of clothes for adults.
From the 1770s until the end of the 19th century, little kids wore long dresses regardless of gender. Such outfit was considered to be comfortable and warm. In addition, the proponents of morality believed that one should not draw children's attention to the difference between sexes. Asexual white clothing emphasized the image of an innocence.
Kids wore similar dresses untill three years, and then pants were added.
In the 1830s, "the most beautiful and comfortable clothing at the same time... for boys from two to five was a loose tunic, tied up with a belt over linen pants. At the same time, the girls were forbidden to wear panties and to participate in active games, running, jumping, etc. However, over time, panties appeared in women's closets. They were getting shorter and shorter untill became an intimate garment and turned into linen.
The Alling Children by Oliver Tarbell Eddy, ca. 1839
Here's a selection of vintage children's clothing of the 19th century from the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Sir Joshua Reynolds, (Britain, 1723–1792). Lady Smith (Charlotte Delaval) and Her Children (George Henry, Louisa, and Charlotte), 1787.
Sir Joshua Reynolds, (British, 1723–1792). Lady Smith (Charlotte Delaval) and Her Children (George Henry, Louisa, and Charlotte), 1787.
Sir Joshua Reynolds, (British, 1723–1792). Lady Smith (Charlotte Delaval) and Her Children (George Henry, Louisa, and Charlotte), 1787.