Objects of Substance – Grammar Bloomers

1979: Netball vs St Margaret’s. Gym tunic tucked in bloomers

The modernisation of Grammar girls’ sports wear continued in the 1980s when the skirt and Physical Education top were introduced. The concept was that the skirt could be removed for classroom gymnastics and the increasing popularity of Basketball. The full bloomer was too bulky for these skirts and the bloomer became the ‘bummer’: tight elastine and cotton pants. Not everyone was comfortable in these briefs and the ‘scoop’ Grammar shorts were introduced. Many girls preferred the freedom of shorts, as well as the protection they afforded under a gym tunic. Thus, the shorts became the next bloomer iteration and proved exceedingly popular.