ELEGANCE on the beach was guaranteed in the 1920s and 30s thanks to fabulously chic beach pyjamas.
And some examples of this stylish century-old attire are coming up for auction on May 31 at Hansons Auctioneers’ Fine Art sale at Bishton Hall in Staffordshire.
Lot 482, a vibrant set of late 1920s or early 30s lounge or beach pyjamas in cyclamen pink and black silk charmeuse are set to go under the hammer with a guide price of £200-£260. The four-piece set, in good condition, includes wide-legged palazzo pants, a simple sleeveless top, open front jacket and a hanging belt effect attachment for the waist.
In an age in which wearing as little as possible beside the sea is all the rage, the floaty silk ensemble demonstrates an elegance many people long for and admire today, according to Virgina Ewart, clothing and textile valuer at Hansons.
She said: “Thanks largely to the designer, Gabrielle Chanel, pyjamas for women became all the rage the 1920s and 30s and they weren’t just for sleeping in.
“Pyjamas were some of the first trousers women were seen wearing out in public. Although French women didn’t gain the right to vote until 1944, emancipation had clearly begun and trousers for some equated to liberation and freedom. Their popularity caused quite a stir. They were championed by the avant-garde fashionistas and free thinkers but criticised, ridiculed and opposed by the conservative bourgeoisie.
“Designers produced beach pyjamas, lounge pyjamas and kitchenette pyjamas for leisurewear though distinction between the types was somewhat fluid. There were also evening pyjamas for glamourous, if slightly rebellious, night time occasional wear. They came in all-in-one jumpsuit styles and sets with tops and bottoms.
“Though beach pyjamas were often, but not exclusively, made from cotton, making them practical and sporty, lounging pyjamas were often silks and satins, sophisticated enough for casual entertaining.”
Hansons invites entries for its monthly antiques, collectables, jewellery, textiles, toys and nostalgia auctions at Bishton Hall, Wolseley Bridge, Staffordshire. To arrange a free valuation of clothing/textiles email: [email protected]. To arrange a free valuation of any kind of antique, collectable, jewellery or silver email Mark Holder: [email protected].
