Object: Dress
Date: c. 1895
Medium: Wool challis, lace, and purple ribbon
Country: USA
Credit Line: Gift of Ruthe Vetter
Object number: 77.212.3
DescriptionCream wool challis tea gown with grey paisley print; standing, lace covered, band collar; shoulder collar pointed at shoulders and at back and front with falling net lace ruffle; watteau pleat back; leg-of-mutton sleeves with flared, lace trimmed, circular cuffs; purple ribbon is brought forward from side waist to center front bust and finished with bow and streamer; linen backed flared body
Label Text:Victorian fashion was incompatible with the “simple life” ideology and its reforms because of its tight corsetry and synthetic aniline dyes. As a result, aesthetic styles of reform dress, such as this tea gown, were adopted to accommodate a natural figure and facilitate ease of movement. Dress reformers also advocated for the use of wool garments, which allowed the skin to breathe and release toxins.
Exhibitions:
- Fashion & Politics
- Food and Fashion