Women's bathing cap
Date1910s
Object number00039505
NameBathing cap
MediumCotton
Dimensions220 x 230 mm, 0.1 kg
ClassificationsClothing and personal items
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionThis 'Mother Goose' style water-proof bathing cap, in red cotton with a white polka dot print, dates from the early 1910s. Designed to protect a swimmer's hair from the sun, sea and wind, it has a decorative band with a flat bow and a knife pleated frill to shade and frame the face.
The interior of the bathing cap has been coated with a semi-permeable water repellant substance, similar to rubber and is secured to the head by a drawstring tied at the back.HistoryDuring the Edwardian period women bathed in knee-length dresses, often featuring a sailor collar. These were worn over bloomers or drawers trimmed with ribbon or bows. This outfit was generally accessorised with black stockings, lace-up boots or sandals and cloth caps.
SignificanceThis is a rare, representative example of a bathing cap from the Edwardian period.
1890-1910