Women's three-piece display bathing costume

Maker Jantzen (American, founded 1910)

Dateearly 20th Century

Object number00045209

NameCap

MediumCotton

DimensionsOverall: 240 x 240 mm

ClassificationsClothing and personal items

Credit LineANMM Collection

Terms

DescriptionThis red and white hounds-tooth print cotton bathing cap formed part of a matching three piece Princess suit. The cap is gathered with elastic into a full crown, and features a black and white ric rac trim. HistoryThe 'princess suit' of the 1900s and 1910s consisted of a short skirted dress worn over matching bloomers. It was usually accessorised with stockings, lace up boots and a matching fabric bathing cap. The bathing suit's knee length skirt allowed greater freedom in the water and its shorter sleeves and button-up back created a more modern look compared to earlier bathing costumes from Victorian times. Widely available through clothing and department stores, the princess suit became very popular in Australia, Europe and America.tton as they were not intended for getting wet. SignificanceThis garment reflects the changing design trends in early 20th century swimwear, signaling the transition from the elaborate bathing costumes of the 1910s to the more streamlined designs of the 1920s.

The swimsuit was previously owned by Jantzen Australia, and was most likely used in fashion parades and window displays. It was later used by David Williams and Chin Yu in musical theatrical productions in the 1970s.