Reception Dress A gown in bengaline moire, this gown is made with a seperate bodice and skirt. The bodice features a false
front vest, self covered buttons and embroidered net lace. The skirt has a dagged front panel, attached overskirt,
and features a shirred flounce around the hem. It was constructed for use as a wedding dress and then for formal
occasions.
Natural Form / Curaiss Dresses 1877-1881
The bustle collapses in this period to remain at the thigh/knee level. Dresses are fitted very tightly on the upper
body, and skirts are often tied back against the front of the legs to achive the desired slender effect. Trains
on gowns become all the rage, but sanity is preserved in the street with the "round" or "short dress"
which does not gather street trash as you stroll along. Collars are becoming taller- most day dresses from this
era have a stand up collar of some sort- a ruffle, mandrin, or such of about 1" tall. Sleeves are slender,
and an extra piece has been added to bodice patterns to allow closer fitting. The princess dress is also popular
(a dress with no waistline seam to add bulk to the popular slender costume)
Following are some examples of my dress designs from this era.
circa 1877
