1900s Edwardian Navy and Cream Cotton Bathing Suit
Circa 1900, this original bathing suit is composed of two separate garments; a high-waisted skirt and romper-style playsuit. It would have been traditionally worn with the skirt over the romper. Many of the designs, often home sewn or dressmaker made from available sewing patterns, referenced naval styles and were fashionable for bathers from the late 1880s through to around 1910.
The ensemble is crafted from deep navy cotton and features nautical cream stitching running in stripes along the cuffs and collar of the romper and on the waistband and bottom hem of the skirt. The romper has a wide sailor collar alongside puff-sleeves and short bloomer leggings with gathered hems. There is a V-shaped modesty panel which nestles between the collar with an inverted chevron design which attaches to one side with a row of hidden buttons. The pleated skirt has a high waistband and fastens in a wrap-around design with a snap closure and two buttons.
A rare survivor of period clothing that is in superb antique condition for being over a century old; she is without fault. A very well made, machined and unlabelled piece, there is virtually no sign of any wear with the fabric still very fresh looking. There is no evidence of repair, darned fabric or alterations, no fade and buttons are original. The elastic in the sleeves and bloomers has evidently been replaced at some point and the new owner may choose to have this refreshed. Robust and very wearable, the ensemble will fit modern sizes up to a UK 10-12 or US 6-8. Our model is a UK 6-8 and 5ft 4 in (163 cm), this ensemble was roomy on her.
We are pleased to have referenced this exact design in the first of our historical reference photos dated 1896. The other two photographs are wonderful candid shots from the early Edwardian period circa 1905.
Romper
Bust - 40 in. (102 cm)
Waist - 28 in. (71cm)
Hip - 42 in. (107 cm)
Length - 43 in. (109 cm)
Skirt
Waist - 36 in. (91 cm)
Hip - 52 in. (132 cm)
Length - 27 in. (69 cm)
Pickup available at CIRCA VINTAGE
Usually ready in 24 hours
F.A.Q.
Will you set anything aside for me before I come?
We are happy to find anything you may be interested in from our website - please let us know a week in advance.
We also have an extensive offline collection. If you let us know your size, style, favourite colour to wear and perhaps your budget, we can browse through our archive in advance of your appointment.
Do I need to bring anything with me?
Clients may wish to bring modern shapewear when trying on garments from certain eras, especially the 1950s. Vintage clothing was often worn with undergarments that shaped the waist and as such is tailored for them.
We have a huge variety of slip dresses and petticoats to complete your look; many of which are also for sale.
You may also wish to bring your favourite footwear. We often find a classic pair of nude shoes work well when trying on, or a pair in gold or silver.
Do you have a price range?
Many of our lower-priced pieces (under £150) are not available to buy online. Our prices range from £80 - £600 for separates. Dresses start at around £150 and go up to £2,500 for the very best antique pieces and designer vintage. Our bridalwear ranges from £300 - £3,000.
Can I bring anyone with me?
Yes but please do let us know the size of your party in advance.
Where can I get alterations?
We offer some alterations in house. Should you need alterations we cannot provide, we can refer you to one of our tried and trusted tailors.
Do you have an after-care service?
We will advise you on the best way to clean and preserve your vintage pieces and can also recommend trusted local dry cleaners.
Can I cancel my appointment?
You are free to cancel but please do give us as much notice as possible. If you cancel less than 24 hours before your appointment, you will be invoiced a late cancellation fee of £25.
Where's the showroom?
Our address is Circa Vintage, 87A Lansdowne Way London SW8 2PB
Upon arrival, buzz the 87A button on the gate or call us 020 7736 5038 to let you in.
Do you have parking?
We offer free, secure, off-street parking but it is a tight squeeze – so do let us know in advance if you will be needing this and we can make sure that there is space available.
How do I get there by public transport?
Underground:
Stockwell (7 min walk) - Northern and Victoria Lines
Nine Elms (9 min walk) – Northern Line
Overground:
Wandsworth Road (13 min walk) – Westbound to Clapham Junction / Eastbound to Dalston Junction
What payment methods do you accept?
Cash, credit/debit card, bank transfer, contactless, Paypal