The Origins of Zeeuws Meisje

From Walcheren Traditional Costume to Iconic Photo Art

Sometimes, something great starts with a simple idea.
The story of Zeeuws Meisje begins in the spring of 2019, when photographer Rem van den Bosch conceived the plan to re-imagine the traditional Walcheren costume — in all the colors of the rainbow.

Not as a costume or prop, but as a respectful and contemporary interpretation of Zeeland heritage. The original costume remained the base; the alterations were made in color and fabric, always with an eye for tradition, symbolism, and authenticity.

For this project, Rem sought collaboration with people who take heritage and craftsmanship just as seriously. He found them, among others, in Wilma of Wilma Mode in Koudekerke, who enthusiastically participated from the very beginning in creating the colorful Walcheren costumes. Creativity and craftsmanship came together here.

The jewelry also played an essential role. Thanks to Piet Minderhoud of Juwelier Minderhoud in Westkapelle and Arnemuiden, original Zeeland jewelry could be used for photoshoots and presentations. His knowledge of traditional costume and history ensured that every detail was correct. Although the photography was innovative, the starting point always remained: heritage deserves respect.

The strength also lay in the craftsmanship.
Neighbor Antoinette de Schipper carefully crocheted all the undercaps and shawls.
Jaap Kramer of Klompenmakerij Traas painted the clogs in exactly the right colors of the costumes.
And make-up artist Desirée Bakker, an old friend of Rem, did the make-up that gave the images their calm, timeless appearance.

Thus Zeeuws Meisje – Gelijkheid was born.

What followed exceeded all expectations. Free posters were distributed with Zeeland girls in all the colors of the rainbow. They appeared behind windows throughout Zeeland, beyond, and even internationally — from Canada to Israel.

The project attracted widespread attention and was documented in a documentary by Omroep Zeeland. In September 2019, a large exhibition followed in the abbey complex in Middelburg.

This moment marked the beginning of what would later grow into Zeeuws Meisje as it exists today:
a platform where traditional and modern costumes, artisanal photography, and Dutch heritage come together as lasting art on the wall.

And this is just the beginning.
The reinterpretation of Dutch costumes continues — with the same care, attention, and love for the story behind each work.

Love,
Ana