Wear the rare. Choose quality. Live with history.
Welcome to Lulu Boop Vintage — where carefully sourced vintage and antique garments are preserved, reimagined, and offered a second life. Each piece is unique, carrying the quiet beauty of its past and waiting to be worn again with intention.
This piece is a very RARE survivor from the early days of women’s athletics, when gymnasium classes and seaside sports began changing how women dressed and moved.
An antique women’s athletic union suit dating to the 1910s–early 1920s, made from lightweight breathable cotton and featuring the charming original “Ladies Athletics” label.
This fascinating garment represents an early moment in history when women began participating more freely in sports and physical activity. Athletic union suits like this were worn for gymnasium exercise, cycling, calisthenics, and seaside athletic wear, designed for comfort and ventilation.
The piece features a sleeveless athletic cut, delicate open-weave cotton fabric, and a button-front closure. The waist seam softly gathers the lower portion into a bloomer-style bottom, creating a silhouette that feels surprisingly modern today.
The fabric is a beautiful lightweight cotton with a subtle grid texture, allowing breathability during physical activity. The construction is simple yet elegant, with small original buttons and the rare red embroidered Ladies Athletics label.
While originally designed as athletic undergarments, pieces like this now make wonderful summer rompers, beachwear, or unique layering garments.
For modern styling it can be worn:
• as a vintage summer romper
• belted at the waist for shape
• layered over swimwear
• styled with wide trousers or skirts
A rare and evocative example of early women’s sportswear and Edwardian athletic clothing, perfect for collectors of antique garments or anyone who loves unique historical fashion.
Condition
Very good antique condition for its age (over 100 years old).
The cotton remains strong and wearable. There is light age toning consistent with antique garments of this period. The original label remains present.
Please review photos carefully as they form part of the description.
Measurements
All measurements are taken flat (in inches).
(1 inch = 2.54 cm)
Please compare with a garment you own for best fit.
• Armpit to armpit: 22 1/2”
* Shoulder: 16”
• Waist: 16”
• Hips: 18 3/4”
• Total length (shoulder to hem): 35” front-36 1/2”back
Mannequin reference: Women’s Size Large
Bust 38.18” · Waist 31.1” · Hips 40.9”
⚠️ Please review measurements carefully before purchasing.
Fit & Sizing Notes
Vintage and antique garments do not follow modern sizing standards. Many were handmade or custom-tailored for one individual. Size tags, when present, are for reference only — measurements are essential. I’m always happy to assist with fit questions.
Condition & Care
• All pieces are vintage or antique and may show gentle signs of age
• Pre-1930s fabrics (silk, muslin, lace) are delicate and should be worn with care
• Garments are best worn with ease, not tension
Edwardian & Victorian considerations:
• Corset-era pieces often have very small waists with broader shoulders or hips
• Sleeves are frequently designed as ¾ length
• Buttons may vary due to age and period repairs
Shipping
• Ships within 1 business day
• International buyers: phone number required for delivery
• Import taxes and duties are the buyer’s responsibility
• All shipments are insured; assistance with claims is always provided
Accessories shown are for styling only and are not included.
Thank you for visiting Lulu Boop Vintage — where history is worn, not archived.
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