Woman's Dress

Currently not on view

Woman's Dress

c. 1863

Artist/maker unknown, American?

The striking fabric of this everyday dress is shown to advantage by the simple construction of the full skirt, which has nearly four yards of fabric pleated into the bodice. A hoop skirt underneath would have given the skirt the dome shape fashionable in the late 1850s and early 1860s. The bodice of the dress enhances the feminine ideal of the period: a rounded bustline is emphasized by double darts, and sloping shoulders are created by dropped armholes with separate sleeve caps. These construction features, along with the large sleeves gathered at the wrist, make the waist appear smaller than its actual 25 1/4 inches.

Currently not on view

Object Details

Title:

Woman's Dress

Date:

c. 1863

Artist:

Artist/maker unknown, American?

Medium:

Printed wool, silk braid

Dimensions:

Waist: 25 1/4 inches (64.1 cm)

Classification:

Costume (including accessories)

Credit Line:

Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Stanley W. Root, Jr., 1978

Accession Number:

1978-110-25

Geography:

Probably made in United States, North and Central America

We are always open to learning more about our collections and updating the website. Does this record contain inaccurate information or language that you feel we should improve or change? Contact us here.

Please note that this particular artwork might not be on view when you visit. Don’t worry—we have plenty of exhibitions for you to explore.

Currently not on view