Jo's Bathing Suit (1850s-1860s)

Be your own Jo March was in this perfectly tailored, high-quality, historically accurate mid-Victorian bathing suit.  Whether you are an attendee at an event, a historical reenactor, an actress in theatre, or an avid admirer of Alcott's works, this bathing suit will be perfect for a day in the water!

This two-piece bathing suit is based on extant examples from the era and consists of bloomers and a knee-length overdress.

When you purchase a made-to-order item, you get the bathing suit of your dreams by choosing the fabric from the drop-down options and providing your measurements for a custom fit.  Contact us through the “Custom Orders” page if you would like to discuss additional fabric and customization options that are not available on this listing.

As a custom piece, this item is professionally handmade at my Texas (USA) studio and order fulfillment takes 10-12 weeks. Please see the website header for a current estimate on the month your order will be shipped to you. Shipping within the U.S. is FREE for all orders over $50.

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ALL THE DETAILS

This bathing suit is made-to-order; choose the size that you currently wear in contemporary sizing and choose the fabric combination from the fabric choices. Within 48 hours of receiving your order, I will send you a measurement worksheet listing the measurements required for a perfect fit. 

The bathing suit features:

• cotton or wool flannel with a full cotton lining
• an "O" shaped bodice with a high neckline
• dropped shoulders
• contrasting middy braid on the bodice, wrist, hem, and ankle
• gathers in the front and back waistline to gather the bodice to the waistband
• front button bodice closure
• long, full-gathered sleeves with button-up cuffs
• a knee length skirt with a width of 75"-90"
• bloomers gathered to a waistband and ankle bands
• button closure on the side of the bloomer waistband

Current fabric choices are shown with inspiration photos to help you visualize the bathing suit in that fabric.  These inspiration photos are either photos of extant bathing suit or period fashion plates.  They serve ONLY as inspiration and do NOT depict exactly how your bathing suit will be made.  Once you order, I will contact you to discuss measurements and confirm your exact design details.

Measure your bust and waist and choose your size based on the pictured sizing guidelines. For the most accurate fit, please take the measurements while wearing your corset or the undergarments you plan to wear with the bathing suit.

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HOW TO MEASURE YOURSELF

Please measure yourself while wearing the corset and other undergarments you plan to wear with the bathing suit.  Remember that measurements such as your bust and waist should be 1-1.5" inches smaller than the measurements, to allow for ease of movement. Refer to the measurement graphic in the listing and this video tutorial if you need assistance in understanding and taking your measurements. If you still have additional questions, please feel free to email me.

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CARE INSTRUCTIONS

A care card will be included with your order, but all fabrics options (including wool) have been pre-washed so that you can actually swim in them without worrying about shrinkage.

All fabrics are preshrunk, usually by prewashing.  Seller is not responsible for any allergic reactions to the detergent used in prewashing.

All items with buttons will come with an extra button sewn inside.