Medium: Green silk faille, chenille, and velvet

Date: c. 1865

Country: USA (possibly)

Credit: Museum purchase

The second half of the 1860s saw the waning of the cage crinoline that had dominated fashion for almost a decade. The enormous, dome-shaped crinolines of the 1850s gradually flattened in front, shifting fullness to the rear of the skirt. In this particular example, the new silhouette is emphasized by the small train of the skirt and fringed peplum of the jacket-like bodice. Fashions of the 1860s were generally more assertive than those of the previous decade and frequently featured masculine elements like a false vest or military details. There was a new emphasis on costumes for activity and public occasions, such as the walking dress, carriage dress, and visiting costume.

Object Number: P88.43.1