Ackermann’s Repository of Arts, September 1809
“Promenade Sea-Beach Costume”
Prints of seaside costumes are among my favorites as they so often show a lovely beach scene in the background. Here we see a fisherman with his net and a couple strolling arm-in-arm along the shore.
One thing to note in prints showing sea side fashions is that the hemlines are typically a bit shorter, presumably to keep them above sand and sea.
The description of this print demonstrates the popularity of giving international names to various styles of garments and accessories. In this simple ensemble we have a Grecian frock, French cambric, Roman back and front, Flemish bonnet, India muslin, Spanish silk, and Chinese parasol. Perhaps the shoes and gloves, at least, were British!
The print is described in the magazine as follows:
“Promenade Sea-Beach Costume: A Grecian frock of fine French cambric or jaconet muslin, with corresponding border at the feet, in shaded purple embroidery; Roman back and front of the same. Full long sleeves, with a turned-up cuff of lace; fastened with a bronze stud set in gold. A Flemish bonnet, of fine plaited or variegated straw, tied under the chin with purple corded ribbon. An ostrich feather, tipped with purple, falling on the left side. A rich habit shirt, formed of fine India muslin (or net) and lace. A marine scarf, of purple Spanish silk, with rich ends, and border of happily contrasted shades, thrown over the figure in true Grecian elegance. Chinese parasol, of purple silk, with deep white awning. Shoes and gloves of lemon-coloured kid.”
