Dress
c. 1760
Silk brocaded taffeta
Museum purchase
Object number2009.11.1
This circa 1760 gown emphasizes that the basic silhouette of women’s fashion had not changed significantly since the late seventeenth century, but by varying a gown’s textiles, colors, trims, and motifs—all showcased on expansive skirts—one could keep current with fashion. This gown’s colorful brocade fabric was likely handwoven on a complex draw loom in Europe. Yet the silhouette, rather than its costly silk, is what indicates its degree of formality. The robe à l’anglaise, distinguished by wide pleats stitched down at the center back, evoked life in an English country house and was worn in more relaxed social settings.
DescriptionRobe a l'anglaise gown with brightly brocaded large floral pattern in shades of pink, green, brown, and blue on mauve silk ground: closed robe a l'anglaise; wide neckline with folded edge; fitted open bodice (stomacher needed); elbow length sleeve with wing cuffs, weight sewn into lining; full knife pleat skirtCollections
Exhibitions