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Fiddle-back bodice
This elegantly designed dress was constructed to mimic the simple elegance of the classical Grecian drapery. The dress was strategically composed to define the wearers silhouette, therefore resulting in a high wasted appearance. The seams of the dress, consisting of tiny pipes, gave the illusion of a diamond. The neck was cut predominantly low. The dresses lightweight material met in the front, normally attached by drawstrings or closures. This dress was created to give the effect of simplicity. -
Silk dress with metallic trim
Dresses grew more structured and defined as taste changed. Padded hems and firmer fabrics such as twills were used in the making of the dresses to more drastically embrace the wearers body. Soft colours were a preferred fabric colour. Sleeves grew fuller and although the high waist was still a liked style, it became less drastic and was slightly lowered to a more reasonable place on the torso. Trimmings were also used more frequently. -
Blue silk gown with rouleau trim
Soon enough, the romantic era arrived. Clothing discretely advanced in complexity. Simplicity was replaced with extravagance. Horizontal hems defined skirts. Sleeves were extended to a winged fabric when the arm was raised. The high waistline dropped to a natural placement and padding was used to give the dress a 3 dimensional effect. Belts were also accompanied to create a more sophisticated look. -
Cotton dress
Alas, an entirety different style of dress. Sleeves were cut off at the elbow and evolved to a massive balloon styled cut off. Necklines stretched across the collar bone to create a wide neckline. Skirts of the dress expanded and needed several petticoats beneath to create an hour glass effect. -
Wool challis day dress
Eventually, overly exaggerated effects died down. Sleeves once again embraced the arms. The waist line was lowered to beneath the waist. Colours were darker and solid colours were commonly sported. Beneath the waistline dresses were expanded to emphasize the lower waist while the trim of the dress dragged upon the floor. -
Day dress flounced a disposition
Soon, exaggerated effects came back. Hoops were inserted into the skirts of dresses to give a maximum effect. Cloaks were worn over wearer's triangular silhouettes to give a classy, original look. These dresses were an expectation for middle class ladies to be seen in. Many of the wearers were relieved when layered petticoats were replaced. -
Silk taffeta day dress
Eventually, round hoops evolved to oval hoops. Backs were emphasized as extra materials were added such as layered patterned materials. Sleeves narrowed at shoulder and widened at wrist, with a dressy fringe to finish them off. Fabric was lightweight and not a hassle to spend an evening in. -
Morin- bloodier silk Gaulle gown
Eventually, necklines were raised and sleeves were cut off in a natural position. Whale bone was used to define features and sleeves were equipped with ruffled cuffs. Small hoops were sported to prevent materials from making contact with the ground. Fabrics were light and soft. -
French silk damask gown
Again, the cluster of fabrics below the waistline returned. Velvet, satin, and wool were used to make the dresses. Frames were continuously used to hold a shape, therefore, this dress style was quite heavy to wear to a casual meal. Torsos were drastically defined. Skirts were layered to give an elegant appearance.
