Three-piece dress
c. 1869
Silk satin and lace
Museum purchase
Object numberP83.19.9
This evening gown was designed with two bodices: one with three-quarter-length sleeves, appropriate for dinner (see second photo), and the other with a wide, off-the-shoulder neckline, which was suitable for a party or ball. Evening gowns were typically more revealing and showcased extravagant materials, allowing for a woman’s social class and sexuality to be displayed.
DescriptionThree-piece dress in cream silk satin, with two bodices; high necked bodice has V front, trimmed with cream lace, fringed trim, and satin bows; 3/4 length sleeves finished in deep ruffles, lace trim; matching full underskirt; wide necked evening bodice with lace collar, edging and ruffles on elbow length sleeves, trim on princess seams; matching overskirt gathered up at the sides, with lace, bows down CF, edged in lace, trimCollections
Exhibitions