Item 105812 - Child's snowsuit with tie on cap, ca. 1950

Item 105812 - Child's snowsuit with tie on cap, ca. 1950
Contributed by Maine Historical Society
Item 105812
Child's snowsuit with tie on cap, ca. 1950
Zoom
4033px x 6149px - 13.4"w x 20.5"h @ 300dpi  |  Need a larger size?
*Credit line must read: Collections of Maine Historical Society
Image Info

Made from a cotton twill called Byrd cloth, the fabric of this gold color child's snowsuit is a tightly woven. The wind repellent and water resistant fabric was breathable, allowing perspiration to escape. Promoted by Arctic explorer Admiral Richard Byrd (1888-1997) the lightweight material was ideal for outdoor activity. However, as the 20th century progressed, more efficient synthetic fabrics supplanted natural fibers for children’s winter wear. Fabric selection aside, the child’s snowsuit design changed little throughout the 20th century. More modern interpretations included a hood instead of a tie-on cap, but the one-piece design—with cinched wrists and ankles—remained a staple in the child’s winter wardrobe. Adorned with small embroidered snowflakes, the suit includes conveniently placed zippers to facilitate dressing a young child. According to its label, Lord & Taylor department stores sold this snowsuit line.

Show Details