The History of Brabant Traditional Costumes
The Brabant costume, rich in traditions and variations, reflects the deep cultural roots and social customs of this region of the Netherlands. Between 1850 and 1940, the costume developed remarkably, influenced by social events, economic conditions, and life events such as baptism, Holy Communion, marriage, and mourning.
Everyday clothing was functional and made of durable materials suitable for work in the fields and in the household. Women often wore simple skirts and blouses, finished with an apron, while the daily clothing of Brabant men was practical and focused on the heavy work in agriculture and crafts. Their clothing usually consisted of a few standard pieces that provided both comfort and durability.
The clothing of Brabant children largely reflected the clothing styles of adults, but was adapted for comfort and practicality. Children’s clothing was simpler, less decorated, and meant to allow the children to move freely while playing and working.
Special Events
For special occasions such as baptism, communion, marriage and mourning, more outspoken clothing was used. During a wedding, for example, women wore richly decorated dresses and the well-known Brabant ‘poffer’, a sumptuously decorated hat that was a status symbol among Brabant women. Men, in turn, wore dark, neat suits with a vest and sometimes a hat.
Mourning clothes had a special place in Brabant costumes. Strict and sober clothing was worn to express respect and mourning. Women and men dressed entirely in black, with subtle differences in clothing indicating how long someone had been in mourning.
Collection of Brabant poffers, hats and clothing
In the school building at the museum there is an extensive collection of Brabant poffers and hats that give a unique insight into the fashion of the time. Not only women’s clothing, but also children’s and men’s clothing from the beginning of the last century are on display.
This collection emphasizes the diversity and rich decorations of Brabant costume and shows how clothing was used to express social status, personal milestones and cultural identity. Each item of clothing in the museum tells a story about the way of life, crafts and traditions of Brabant in the past. The exhibition is co-curated from the collection of Fien van Berlo – Braks (deceased in 2010).
