Essential clothing:
* "Kit" or "Kitti" - A heavy, woolen tunic, often brown or grey, worn for warmth and protection against the elements. It was typically belted at the waist.
* Trousers - Typically made of thick, durable denim or corduroy.
* Boots - Sturdy leather boots with thick soles, often hobnailed for traction and protection.
* Hats - Miners often wore felt hats for protection from falling debris and water. These were often "flat" hats, with a small brim.
* Whistle - Miners would carry a whistle, often a "peacock" whistle, for signaling and communication in the mines.
* Lamp - Essential for illuminating the mine shafts, typically oil lamps or candles.
Specific clothing items:
* "Tubby" jacket - A thick, padded jacket worn for added warmth in cold conditions.
* "Dicky" - A thick, leather collar worn to protect the neck from dust and debris.
* "Gaffers" - Gloves made of thick leather, often with reinforced fingertips.
* "Leggins" - Tight-fitting, woolen pants worn for warmth in winter.
Evolution of clothing:
* Early days: Miners often wore old clothes and scraps of fabric, with little emphasis on safety or comfort.
* Mid-19th century: As mining technology advanced and safety became more of a concern, miners began wearing more specific and practical clothing.
* Late 19th and 20th century: The use of uniforms and specialized mining clothes became more common, often provided by the mine owners.
Remember that the specific clothing worn by Cornish miners varied greatly depending on individual preferences, work conditions, and the time period.
It's important to note that while the clothing was practical, it was often rough, worn, and dirty due to the harsh working conditions.