Bloomers
Step into comfort and history with classic, versatile costume bloomers.
Originally popularized in the 1850s by women's rights activist Amelia Bloomer as a comfortable alternative to heavy Victorian skirts, bloomers have become a staple of historical reenactment, Renaissance fairs, and cosplay. This guide covers how to style the classic mid-19th-century 'Bloomer Costume' as well as modern ruffled variations. The look centers on loose, gathered pants worn under a knee-length dress or tunic.
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Time
- ~20 min
- Budget
- $25–75
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What you need for a Bloomers costume
Ruffled or gathered bloomers
Loose-fitting, lightweight cotton or satin pants that gather at the calf or ankle with elastic, drawstring, or lace trim.
DIY: Modify a pair of loose white pajama pants by sewing elastic bands inside the ankle cuffs to create a gathered effect.
Knee-length dress or tunic
A solid-colored, long-sleeved Victorian-style dress or a simple tunic that hits just at or below the knee.
DIY: Hem a longer vintage long-sleeve dress so that it ends right at the knees.
Waist belt or sash
A wide fabric sash or leather belt to cinch the waist of the dress.
DIY: Tie a wide strip of matching or contrasting fabric around your waist.
Lace-up boots
Classic Victorian-style ankle boots or simple leather lace-up boots.
DIY: Use any dark-colored lace-up boots or simple leather flats.
How to put it together
- 1
Put on the bloomers first, adjusting the elastic or drawstrings so they sit comfortably at your waist and gather neatly around your calves or ankles.
- 2
Layer the knee-length dress or tunic over the bloomers, ensuring the ruffled hems of the bloomers are clearly visible underneath.
- 3
Cinch the waist with a wide fabric sash or belt to define the historical silhouette.
- 4
Lace up your Victorian-style ankle boots or slip on simple leather flats.
- 5
Style your hair in a neat, historical middle part or bun to complete the 19th-century look.
Makeup & hair
Keep makeup minimal and natural to match the historical 1850s era. Style hair in a classic low bun, a braided crown, or a neat middle part with soft curls pinning back the sides.
Bloomers for couples, groups, kids & more
- couples
- Pair with a partner dressed as a 19th-century gentleman in a frock coat and top hat.
- group
- Create a suffragette or women's rights rally group with sashes and protest signs.
- kids
- Use short, ruffled bloomers under a colorful toddler dress for a cute, vintage look.
- Plus size
- Look for bloomers with wide, soft elastic waistbands and generous thigh room for maximum comfort.
Tips
- Choose breathable cotton or linen fabrics, especially if wearing bloomers to outdoor Renaissance fairs or summer conventions.
- If your bloomers are too long, pull the elastic cuffs higher up your calves to create a fuller, more gathered look.
- Wear neutral-colored undergarments, as white or cream costume bloomers can sometimes be slightly sheer.
Bloomers costume FAQ
- What is the historical Bloomer Costume?
- Introduced in the 1850s, it consisted of a knee-length dress worn over full, loose trousers (pantalettes) gathered at the ankles, offering women freedom of movement.
- How do I choose the right size of costume bloomers?
- Look for bloomers with elasticized waistbands and cuffs, and check the thigh circumference measurements to ensure a comfortable, non-constricting fit.
- Can I wear bloomers for other costumes?
- Yes, bloomers are incredibly versatile and work perfectly for Renaissance fair outfits, pirate costumes, Lolita fashion, and Victorian undergarments.
Did you know? The garment was named after Amelia Bloomer, editor of the first newspaper for women, 'The Lily,' who fiercely advocated for dress reform.