Married woman's half-cap

Headgear for the costume from the Powiśle Lubelskie region was still worn by married women at the beginning of the 20th century. The decorative form of garment consisted of three parts: a head covering the top of the head and two sashes fixed on both sides (there are none in the presented half-cap), which were tied under the chin in a big bow, and their decoratively embroidered ends were spread on the breasts. This type of headgear was made only by specialists – cap-makers, who not only sewed, but also took care of its refreshing, in other words they washed, ironed and properly arranged it. Caps were sold in special shops located in cities and towns.

The presented bonnet is made of tulle and decorated with white embroidery. The headpiece is trimmed all around with crinkled narrow white lace interspersed with pink ribbon. Also, there are artificial flowers and leaves formed from velvet at one of the edges to which silver beads are attached. This form of head decoration was adopted from urban fashion and was used until the inter-war period by older women who safeguarded the tradition. They also followed the rule, which used to be shared among married women, that they could not leave the house with a bare head. Women wore this head covering only on festive days and for important family events.