Volendam costume

A Dutch female dance costume consisting of seven parts which include a black top with short sleeves and sqaure neck, worn as a jacket. The neckline is trimmed with an embroidered fabric with red and white flowers, and the zip closure is lined on either side with red braiding. A white double bib with a floral motif sewn into the centre of both the front and the back, and a ruched neckline trimmed with bright red ribbon and a green "ric rac" braid. Open on three sides, the bib can be pulled over the head and fastened with two snap closures on the right shoulder and tied at each side with the long ribbons. The bottom hem has been marked by the donor, "A.C. Kerkemeyer-Buningh 1985 Adelaide." A cream coloured petticoat withwhite lace trim on the hem, and ties at the sides. A vividly striped gathered skirt which ties at waist. Skirts such as this are usually worn at weddings or special occassions. A black satin apron with a wide red waistband that ties at the back. A band of white cotton is sewn underneath the waistband, and has three floral motifs - the same as those found on the bib - sewn in the centre and sides.A winged cap - known as a "hul" - of white lace. Caps like this one were only worn on special occassions. A necklace consisting of three strands of round red beads, which meet in the middle joining onto a metal pendant.
This, and other related costumes were made when Anna Kerkemeyer was part of a Dutch dance group in the 1960s and 1970s. Dutch folk dancing groups became popular amongst emigrants in the 1950s as a way of keeping Dutch customs and traditions alive. Some of the costumes have been hand embroidered by Anna, and all were made from Dutch-sourced patterns or made in Holland.This costume is evidence of the continuation of culture after migration. The four costumes that make up the donation also illustrate the regional variations of dress in Holland.