Figure 1.--These American boys are weaaring identical sailor tunics. The photograph was probably taken about 1910.

Tunic syuits were very popular for younger boys at the turn of the century. These suits were widely worn in Europe, but they were especially popular in America. Part of their popularity was probably because thery looked similar to a skirted outfit. Boys after the turn of the century were less commonly outfitted in dresses and kilts. Apparently many mothers still felt that skirted garments were the most suitable for younger children, perhaps in part explaining the popularity of thesde tunic outfits.

Various styles of tunic suits were worn, including Russian blouses, Buster Brown suits, and sailor tunics. The most common were the sailor tunics.

Buster Brown Tunics

Buster Brown tunics were a popular style of tunic suits in America. I believe the Buster Brown tunic was less common in Europe.

Russian Tunics

The Russian blouse style was another type of tunic widely worn in the early 20th century. There were two types, the clsed and open neck style.

Figure 2.--These twins in their sailor tunics were photographed outdoors with their hobbey horses. At the time, takeing photographs inside was more difficult for amateur photographers. The boys appear to be wearing peaked caps.

Sailor Tunics

Sailor suits were one of the most popular outfits for boys. Sailor suits were most commonly worn with kneepants, but long pants and short pants versions were also widely worn. There were also dresses with sailor styling. The tunic suits were worn by younger boys whose mothers did not feel they were quite ready for a more formal sailor suit with pants. The sailor tunic was generally worn with bloused pants that were worn at about the same length as the tunic. These knicker-like pants were worn both at above and below the knee length and with and without stockings.

Created: January 17, 2000
Last updated: January 17, 2000