Bloomers

About

Bloomers are a type of clothing that originated in the 19th century, primarily associated with the women's rights movement. They consist of loose, wide-legged trousers, often worn under knee-length dresses or skirts. The design was a departure from traditional restrictive women's clothing, allowing for greater mobility and comfort. Amelia Bloomer, a prominent women's rights advocate, popularized this style, which became known as the "Bloomer costume." It included a short jacket and loose "Turkish" trousers gathered at the ankles. Bloomers symbolized a shift towards more practical and liberated women's fashion. Despite initial controversy and ridicule, they remained a powerful symbol of women's rights. In the late 19th century, bloomers were also adopted as a cycling uniform during the bicycle craze, further emphasizing their practicality. Today, the term "bloomers" can refer to various styles of loose, trouser-like garments, reflecting their enduring influence on women's clothing and societal norms.