Afternoon dress
Brand
The House of Worth
(French, 1858 - 1956)
c. 1892
Yellow satin stripe silk gauze
Museum purchase
Object numberP87.20.24
Worth designed in an era when a multitude of rules governed dress, and small details told a great deal about a woman's social standing. During the 19th century, ladies wore certain garments only when receiving guests, making calls, and attending a wide variety of functions, including teas, dinners, balls, and the opera. This handsome two-piece ensemble, designed by the House of Worth in the early 1890s, would have been worn during the spring or summer, in the afternoon to a party or when visiting socially. One can imagine how the brilliant yellow would have shimmered as its wearer moved in bright sunlight.
DescriptionTwo-piece dress in yellow satin stripe silk gauze, with detached ruffle and collar; short sleeved full bodice with ruffle collar, mock-yoke ruffle, pleated self sash; flared skirt with rows of self ruffles; matching detached self flounce; detached stand collar with ruffle edgeCollections