The “Aesthetic” dress promoted by the Pre-Raphaelites…
1852 CE to 1863 CE
The “Aesthetic” dress promoted by the Pre-Raphaelites in the previous era begins to be adopted in sophisticated societies by the 1860s; in addition, sports are creeping back for women, and some freer clothes evolve in consequence.
Amelia Bloomer's reformed trousers for women never become fashionable, but women gymnasts and sea bathers adopt them.
Sea bathing becomes popular in the mid-nineteenth century when railroads first make it possible for people to get to the beach for their vacations.
The first bathing suits, or swimsuits, conceal most of the body: women wear bloomers, black stockings, and a dress with short sleeves and skirt; men wear a dark-colored, one-piece, sleeveless garment reaching to the ankles or knees.
