Pinafores

Pinafores

Pinafores are a type of sleeveless dress that originated in the 18th century as a protective garment worn over a petticoat. The name pinafore comes from the French word pinailler, which means to nitpick, as the garment was often used by women who worked with small items like pins and needles. Pinafores were typically made of sturdy materials like cotton or linen and were designed to be practical rather than fashionable. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, pinafores became popular children's wear, especially for little girls. They were often made in bright colors and patterns and were worn over a blouse or dress. Pinafores were seen as a practical garment for young children, as they were easy to wash and allowed for freedom of movement. During the mid-20th century, pinafores fell out of fashion, but they have recently made a comeback as a vintage-inspired fashion item. Modern pinafores are often made in a variety of styles, from simple, utilitarian designs to more elaborate, decorative pieces.

protective garment, children's wear, practical, vintage-inspired, blouse

— David Jones

CITATION : "David Jones. 'Pinafores.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=264913 (Accessed on August 10, 2025)"