But, while all agreed that some change was absolutely necessary for the health of women, the press stoutly ridiculed those who were ready to make the experiment.
A few sensible women, in different parts of the country, adopted the costume, and farmers' wives especially proved its convenience.

It was also worn by skaters, gymnasts, tourists, and in sanitariums.

But, while the few realized its advantages, the many laughed it to scorn, and heaped such ridicule on its wearers that they soon found that the physical freedom enjoyed did not compensate for the persistent persecution and petty annoyances suffered at every turn.

To be rudely gazed at in public and private, to be the conscious subjects of criticism, and to be followed by crowds of boys in the streets, were all, to the very last degree, exasperating.

A favorite doggerel that our tormentors chanted, when we appeared in public places, ran thus: "Heigh! ho! in rain and snow, The bloomer now is all the go.
Twenty tailors take the stitches, Twenty women wear the breeches.
Heigh! ho! in rain or snow, The bloomer now is all the go." The singers were generally invisible behind some fence or attic window.
Those who wore the dress can recall countless amusing and annoying experiences.