Bloomerism: Suffragettes Radical Fashion

Publication Date

Spring 3-2025

Presentation Length

Poster/Gallery presentation

College

O'More College of Architecture & Design

Department

Fashion Design and Merchandising

Student Level

Undergraduate

SPARK Category

Art

Faculty Advisor

Jenny Kemala

WELL Core Type

Cultural Wellness

Metadata/Fulltext

Metadata ONLY

SPARK Session

10:15-11:15

Presentation Type

Gallery

Summary

Freedom from fifteen pounds of petticoats, heavy skirts, and organ- crushing corsets gave women suffragettes in the 1850s hope—not only for their health but for their overall future. The early women's rights movement inspired me to create a modernized garment reflecting their radical yet practical attire, which protested restrictive clothing options. This style was originated and championed by early women's suffrage activists like Elizabeth Smith Miller and Amelia Bloomer. It features a tailored, knee-length tunic paired with flowy yet elegant trousers, which became known as the “Bloomer Suit.” Made from lightweight, breathable fabrics, the design prioritized both elegance and modesty while allowing greater mobility—symbolizing the fight for women’s rights and the freedom of movement they advocated. I incorporated these stylistic concepts into my own design by experimenting with asymmetry and garment length, modernizing them while still honoring the beliefs and comfort considerations of the women of that time. We have come a long way in the fight for women's rights, and it is essential to acknowledge those who took the first steps and risked their lives to stand up for themselves and their safety.

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