History Daily Saturday Matinee: Dressed
May 31, 2025
Join fashion historians April Callahan and Cassidy Zachary as they dive into the intriguing evolution of children's clothing from the 16th to 19th centuries. They discuss how safety features began to shape toddler attire, spotlighting practices like breeching and pudding caps. The role of portraiture in revealing societal norms, along with the historical transformations of baby walkers, provides fascinating insights into child-rearing philosophies. The conversation sparks a reflection on how fashion intertwines with culture and family dynamics.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Rubens' Toddler Safety Fashion
- Rubens' 1635 portrait of his toddler son Franz shows him in a padded safety cap and dress, typical for toddlers then.
- Despite high-style adult dress of parents, safety features were integrated thoughtfully in children's wear even centuries ago.
Historical Children's Dress Practices
- Historically, boys and girls both wore gowns until boys were "breached" at around age six.
- Breeching marked a rite of passage celebrated in many cultures, especially in England.
Pudding Caps for Toddler Safety
- The "pudding cap" or "pudding" was a padded hat protecting toddlers' skulls for centuries.
- Museums hold examples adorned with lace, ribbons, and luxurious materials depending on wealth.