Early 1900s Boy’s Outfit
When you have old-fashioned skills like spinning and weaving, people assume you know about all things historical, and ask you to speak about them, especially to kids. Because I think it’s so important for kids to know where things come from, I am always happy to do these presentations.
Kids like learning about fiber processes, because they get to do a lot of hands-on activities, and they’re pretty sure there won’t be a test. We start with raw cotton and wool, card it, spin it, weave a little, and then finish up with a look at what they would have worn if they were child laborers in a cotton field or mill “back in the day.” I bought this boy’s outfit at a little antique shop to use in those presentations. (The cap actually belonged to my father-in-law when he was little.)
Wool twill knickers, linen shirt, wool cap.
Collar detail – no label in the shirt.
Detail of waistband.
You can click on the picture to see a close-up of the fabric. I love this twill – it has two red stripes and one gold stripe, that repeat independently of the directional changes in the twill.
The knickers are fully lined.
I think this outfit would have been both sturdy and comfortable. It’s not common to find boys’ clothes for sale – I guess boys were harder on their clothes, or less sentimental about keeping them!
This looks like a really comfy outfit to work in!! Wish they were still in fashion!! 😉
In some ways the long baggy shorts of today remind me of these knickers. And the linen feels so good!
It sure looks pretty soft too!! 🙂
So cute! It reminds me of my youngest son. When he was in third grade (many moons ago), they had Little House Day at school. He was dressed in an outfit very similar to that. I took my portable quilt stand with a panel in it and let the children try their hand at quilting. I may have to look for that picture this afternoon. Thanks for making me think of that!
I love teaching kids about textiles – they are so receptive. My daughter had me bring a loom to school even in high school, and her class loved it. Glad to bring back a happy memory for you.