Object: Two-piece dress
Designer:
M.A. O'Connell
Date: c. 1888
Medium: Green silk, white brocade, and beads
Country: USA
Credit Line: Museum purchase
Object number: P87.20.42
DescriptionTwo-piece dress in blue green silk with coordinating white brocade in a feather pattern; fitted boned bodice with brocade accents CF, half belt, lapels and cuffs; elbow length narrow puffed sleeves; matching smocked plastron with band collar; matching skirt with brocade front, with silk streamers trimmed with bead tassels, back with bustle, deep pleats, and train
Label Text:Ferns were the subject of an intense “mania” during the Victorian era. One of the oldest forms of plant life, the fern metaphorically captured the majesty of primordial time. Collecting ferns became one of the few hobbies to transcend class and gender barriers. Fern motifs, such as the one on this dress, appeared on everything from clothing to tombstones.
Exhibitions:
- Eco-Fashion: Going Green
- Force of Nature