Afternoon dress
c. 1860
Grey silk moiré
Museum purchase
Object number2006.56.3
The ripples and waves created by a lustrous grey, silk moiré fabric add depth and volume to this afternoon dress. Moiré dresses were coveted for their striking, complicated patterns as well as for the high quality craftsmanship required to match such patterns during construction of a dress. The sheen produced by the fabric's "water" effect draws attention to the expansive width of the skirt, which is supported by a dome-shaped crinoline petticoat. The large pagoda sleeves, decorated with ivory cartridge pleated ribbon, mimic the wide sloping lines of the skirt, adding balance to a fashionably broad-based silhouette.
DescriptionAfternoon dress in gray silk moiré with, large pagoda sleeves, ecru lace undersleeves; self band belt; pointed lace collarCollections
Exhibitions