What is a defining characteristic of the Hobble skirt from the 1910s?

The defining characteristic of the Hobble skirt from the 1910s is its S-curve silhouette. This style reflects the fashion trends of the time, where the silhouette was designed to emphasize a dramatic hourglass shape. The Hobble skirt was characterized by a narrow hem, which limited movement and often required the wearer to take smaller steps, thus creating the "hobbled" effect. This silhouette was intentionally constructed to draw attention to the waist and hips, contributing to the overall curvaceous look that was highly sought after during that era.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of the Hobble skirt. Loose-fitting attire was not a hallmark of this style; rather, the skirt was quite fitted to achieve its unique shape. While it did accentuate the waistline, that characteristic alone does not specifically define the Hobble skirt compared to its more notable S-curve silhouette. Additionally, the Hobble skirt is definitely not a type of bathing suit, as it was primarily a fashion statement in formal and semi-formal wear of the early 20th century, particularly in women's fashion.