From the infamous pigtailed Laura Ingalls to the lovely Meg March of “Little Women,” beloved young ladies throughout the centuries have had at least one thing in common — bonnets.
Who in this day and age could resist the chance to wear a pretty calico bonnet all the day long, feeling its cool shade across our faces as we work in the hot sun, or basking in the knowledge that such a feminine thing rested upon our head? Bliss!–right?
Let’s go back to the 17th to early 19th centuries when bonnets were not only a fashion accessory, but a necessity! A bonnet was not simply “a bonnet.” Bonnets were used for so many things. There were many different styles, shapes, and fabrics depended on your living situation and rank in society.
The Poke Bonnet was the most common pioneer lady bonnet, much like what Laura would have worn. These were simple, practical bonnets designed with “pokes” and a floppy brim to protect one’s face from the sun. To provide a suitable “Sunday Bonnet” some farmwives did the pattern with precious black silk.
Slat Bonnets (named for the “slats” originally used to stiffen them) were worn by women working in the fields or around the farm from the 19th century well into the 20th century. They usually had a long bavolet (curtain) at the back, which made them somewhat unique.
Its cousin, the Button Bonnet, was not the prettiest of bonnets, and was used only for work. It was made with many buttons and buttonholes to give it shape and ease when it was time to be washed. It could lie almost completely flat, perfect for quick ironing and starching.
Pioneer and farming wives were not, of course, the only ones who wore bonnets. Girls from the age of five carefully tied their ribbons before going out to play, for a lady did not get freckle or tans or dust in her hair during this time. In France during the 1870’s, light, un-structured bonnets were fashionable. Among the nobles, gauze, gold thread, and silk decorated the coverings so that they would suit for any occasion. As hairstyles became more elaborate and large, bonnets increased in size.
As time progressed, and “modern times” came into view, bonnets were slowly dropped from society. Tans were considered ’in,’ and thus there was no need for a covering. Hats provided a more fashionable look and were preferred to the simple cloth. The few that remain now are placed in history museums or are used as models for dress-up and play bonnets.
They say that everything from the past will eventually come back ’in,’ but sadly, I do not believe the bonnet is one of those fortunate survivors. I myself have a bonnets, and though deep in the dress-up bin, it still serves as a welcome reminder of the once cherished femininity in our nation’.
About The Author
Several years ago I was delighted when my Grandma gave me a dutch bonnet. I had searched and searched for a bonnet of my own, but to no avail.
And recently, I was given a lovely Civil War/Pioneer era sunbonnet! I have used it while working in the garden during springtime.
Bonnets ARE useful things! Although Laura Ingalls, during her girlhood years, didn’t appreciate them. In some of the early books in her “Little House” series, either Mary or Ma is always scolding her for “letting her bonnet hang down her back and getting brown as an indian.” :-0
Sincerely,
With Love in Messiah,
Leah Kathryn
[Reply to this Comment]
Miss Lucia's reply:
May 3rd, 2010 at 2:05 pm
Miss Leah Kathryn,
Thank you for commenting!
Really? How wonderful! =)Bonnets *are* fun, yes! Yes, I remember that..I was going to add that, but it slipped my mind! I suppose wearing one ALL the time would get a tad irritating..=)
Blessings,
LUCIA
[Reply to this Comment]
Hmmm… I’ve never given bonnets much thought, but I do like the poke bonnet. Very sweet and feminine. = )
Blessings,
Kate
[Reply to this Comment]