ContributorCommunity HistoryDescriptionHandmade cream silk crochet baby matinee jacket with cream silk 13mm ribbon ties. There are rust marks and discolouration on the ribbon and jacket. The ribbon is also frayed and damaged.CollectionChildhood DaysDate createdc1935Height (mm)350Width (mm)310Materialssilk thread, silk ribbon 13mmHistorical details
This silk crochet matinee jacket was owned by the Joll family and was worn by Patricia Joll (nee Kenny) as a baby c1935. The Joll family, who were originally from Brisbane, moved to Perth in 1964 where they lived in Floreat, Wembley and Churchlands.
A matinee jacket is a short coat for a baby, similar to a cardigan. Matinee jackets originated during the 19th and early 20th centuries and were designed to be lightweight, elegant garments worn by infants and young children for formal occasions. Initially, they were made from luxurious fabrics like silk and satin, but over time, knitted and cotton flannelette versions became more popular, as they offered warmth and were more practical to wear.
