Early 20th Century French Harlequin Costume – c.1910s–20s Two-Piece Cotton Ensemble

c.1910s–20s French Harlequin Costume – Brown Tones, Cotton Two-Piece

A rare and charming French harlequin costume from the 1910s–1920s, made in warm brown tones of printed cotton in the classic diamond pattern. This two-piece set includes a jacket and matching trousers—both beautifully cut with subtle theatrical flair.

The jacket fastens with metal poppers and has a fitted shape, while the trousers feature a drawstring waist that fastens with a bone button. The trousers are especially lovely in their cut, with pointed hips and narrow ankles that fasten with metal hook-and-eyes—creating that timeless, stylized harlequin silhouette.

This piece likely belonged to a small theatre company or was used in amateur performance or carnival, at a time when commedia dell’arte and classic pantomime figures were still widely popular in French stage and costume culture.

Top Measurements:

Bust (underarm to underarm): 20”

Waist: 34”

Arm opening (shoulder to underarm): 7.5”

Sleeves: 21”

Shoulders: 16”

Trousers Measurements:

Waist: adjustable 22”–38” (drawstring with bone button)

Rise: 13”

Full leg length: 37”

Size:

Best suited to a modern size Small. Please check measurements—particularly shoulder width and arm opening, which are on the smaller side.

Condition:

Very good for its age. Some small marks, general fading, and minor discoloration as shown—nothing that detracts from its charm or wearability.

A delightful and unique piece of early 20th-century costume history. Perfect for display, photography, theatre, or collectors of antique garments.

Please feel free to message with any questions or for more photos.