Dress

Date1800-1810

MediumSemi-sheer cotton, trimmed with white needlework insertions; bodice lining of linen.

DimensionsOL: 51"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1994-153

DescriptionWoman's gown of semi-sheer white cotton, trimmed with insertions of white needlework, 1/2" wide, forming V shapes on the bodice and edging the long sleeves. Gown styled with raised waistline, rounded neckline and collar, and long sleeves tucked at top of shoulders. Long skirt falls smoothly at front, with gathers at sides and at center back. Skirt hem has series of four tucks near hem. Bodice is "apron front," opening by means of four covered buttons on left shoulder, the bib attached to the skirt front which ties at center back. Four non-functional buttons decorate right shoulder. Inner linen bodice pins closed at center front under the "bib". Short sleeve linings of linen. Rounded collar, single layer, sewn to back neckline and extending over shoulders. Back raised waist has thread loops to hold the ties from apron front.

Note, the gown appears slightly blue, probably from laundry blueing.
Label TextGown styles changed dramatically at the end of the eighteenth century. Waistlines rose to just under the bust, textiles were soft and drapey, and skirts fell close to the body. Although some neoclassical gowns, or dresses, were skimpy, not all women embraced the new style fully. This example has a high neckline and long sleeves, probably worn by a modest or conservative woman, or perhaps for winter use.

Exhibition(s)