Gym suit 1893 - 1903

This gym suit was made by the R.H. Stearns Company. Here we see a fascinating convergence of social change and institutional influence. Note the functionality of the design, prioritizing movement and modesty. These clothes were not about attracting attention, rather, they were about engaging in physical activity. This was a time when women's roles were being redefined. The rise of women's colleges and the increasing emphasis on physical education reflects a shift in societal attitudes towards women's capabilities and their place in the public sphere. The very existence of this garment speaks volumes about the changing social landscape and the growing acceptance of women's participation in sports and physical activities. To understand this garment fully, we might delve into the archives of women's colleges. By exploring catalogs, student publications, and athletic records, we can begin to see the ways in which institutions shaped not only the physical education of women but also their sense of identity and empowerment.