Bathing suit

Art Historical Context

This striking bathing ensemble, crafted around 1885 by the American firm Kennedy Bros., reflects the modest yet practical approach to swimwear in the late Victorian era. Designed for women, it features a structured wool bodice and skirt in deep tones, paired with cotton accents and a straw hat, emphasizing coverage and durability over ease of movement. At a time when public bathing was gaining popularity at seaside resorts, such garments prioritized propriety, with heavy fabrics intended to maintain shape when wet. The use of wool was particularly significant, as it was believed to offer warmth and hygiene in chilly ocean waters, while the layered construction allowed for modest wading without revealing the figure. This piece exemplifies the Costume Institute’s holdings of American fashion, illustrating how everyday leisure activities intersected with strict social norms of the 1880s. Donated to The Metropolitan Museum of Art in 1958 by Mrs. Robert S. Kilborne, the suit offers a tangible glimpse into the evolution of recreational clothing and the beginnings of a more liberated approach to women’s attire.