Page 73 - All About History 55 - 2017 UK
P. 73
Sun, Sea and Social Breakdown
The great Bathing machines
cover-up Invented to preserve the modesty of
Victorian ladies, they would be pushed or
pulled into the water either by men or a
The modest way horse. The occupant could then descend
the steps into the water with as little
to take the air or bodily ‘exposure’ as possible. Assistants
could also be hired to help you into the
take the plunge! water and ‘take a dip’ rather than swim,
then aid you in returning up the steps.
A whiter shade of pale The heads-up on
At first shaded bonnets, and then later sensible bathing
less formal straw hats, were acceptable With a variety of styles, a hat or
to keep the sun from colouring the face, The neckline
A second line which was not socially acceptable. Tanning bonnet kept the hair neatly in
of defence was not fashionable until the 1920s. place and covered. A dip up to the begins to take
chest was all that was required
If your hat or bonnet didn’t and your head going under the the plunge
give enough protection from water was very unladylike! The high-buttoned collars
the sun, a parasol did the of earlier swimwear gave
trick. It was also very useful to way to a more relaxed
shield you from the eyes approach. The blouse
of the lower classes and to was still buttoned up for
hide telling blushes when warmth and modesty, but
being courted. it offered a feminine style
with a belt that brought the
outfit in at the waist.
Chin up to keep
out the chill
A high-collared jacket was
essential to remaining poised
and keeping the sea breeze
from causing a chill. It also
protected the arms from the
sun and insects. Elaborate
lace would complete the
feminine touch.
A little skin
begins to
appear
Far more relaxed and
braving, these sleeves gave
exposure to both sea and
sun, creating a little more
Under wraps freedom of movement and
from prying being quite risqué. Sleeves
eyes and pests would eventually creep
Necessary to cover the legs further up the arms, but
and the ankles from insects not for some time yet.
and gentlemen’s gazes, long
skirts were often paired with
a crinoline petticoat to give
it shape and bustle at the
rear — not easy for sitting in
a deck chair! Lighter cotton
skirts were introduced later.
You never
know what you
might tread on
Avoid sand between Sea bathing did not involve
swimming and so shoes or
your toes at all costs boots covered the ankles
Whether walking on the beach or the for modesty and were
promenade, it was always wise to be Weighed down by the need for modesty required when you stood in
prepared with a stout pair of shoes Trousers or skirts were a point of style and preference in heavy woollen the water, in case of jagged
or boots, laced properly so as not to material. Ladies often chose a combination of these, even putting weights pebbles or unspeakable sea
expose the ankles. into the over-skirt to stop it rising to the surface and exposing the creatures that may have
trousers beneath.
been underfoot.
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