Dress
c. 1895
Wool challis, lace, and purple ribbon
Gift of Ruthe Vetter
Object number77.212.3
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.
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 bodyCollections
Exhibitions