Bloomer, Amelia (1818-1894)

US campaigner for women's rights. In 1849, when unwieldy crinolines were the fashion, she introduced a knee-length skirt combined with loose trousers gathered at the ankles, which became known as bloomers (also called ‘rational dress’). She published the magazine The Lily (1849-54), which campaigned for women's rights and dress reform, and lectured with Susan B Anthony in New York, USA.