Gym suit
The movement towards women's physical education being included in school curricula was first introduced in the 1850s, although it was not fully accepted until later in the century. Women were seen as frail and easily exhausted from the mental and physical strains placed upon them by a sedentary lifestyle and the newfound entrance into Universities. Initially, basic calisthenics were employed, but later 19th-century exercises were more strenuous and included props, such as scarves and weights.
This ensemble is exemplary of the typical garment created by women participating in a physical education course in the late 19th century. The middy style blouse and bloomers allowed movement and fully concealed the female figure, while the balls on the end of the sash could be used as props in calisthenics. Its striking trim, nautical sensibility and unique sash make it an intriguing peek into the early gymnasium of women.
This ensemble is exemplary of the typical garment created by women participating in a physical education course in the late 19th century. The middy style blouse and bloomers allowed movement and fully concealed the female figure, while the balls on the end of the sash could be used as props in calisthenics. Its striking trim, nautical sensibility and unique sash make it an intriguing peek into the early gymnasium of women.
Artwork Details
- Title: Gym suit
- Date: 1893–98
- Culture: American
- Medium: wool, cotton, leather
- Credit Line: Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Gift of the Brooklyn Museum, 2009; Gift of Mrs. Albert Ogden in memory of Sheldon Stewart, 1964
- Object Number: 2009.300.884a–f
- Curatorial Department: The Costume Institute
More Artwork
A slider containing 5 items.
Press the down key to skip to the last item.
Press the down key to skip to the last item.
Herman Rossberg
1887
Mme. Grapanche
1884–86
American
1860–65
Samuel O. Aborn
ca. 1840
American
1835
Research Resources
The Met provides unparalleled resources for research and welcomes an international community of students and scholars. The Met's Open Access API is where creators and researchers can connect to the The Met collection. Open Access data and public domain images are available for unrestricted commercial and noncommercial use without permission or fee.
To request images under copyright and other restrictions, please use this Image Request form.
Feedback
We continue to research and examine historical and cultural context for objects in The Met collection. If you have comments or questions about this object record, please complete and submit this form. The Museum looks forward to receiving your comments.