Here is a wonderful photograph that demonstrates the transition between the 1840s and early 1850s. The short-waisted bodice and stitched-down sleeves with the puffy “bells” above the cuff are typically 1840s. The main difference is in the width of the skirt, which places the gown in the 1850s. Perhaps this lady just kept the old-fashioned [...]

I just love these spoofs from the 1860s! So many artists found women’s new fashions completely comical and worthy of high satire. The first three cartoons poke fun at hoopskirts, while the one on the lower right demonstrates how unflattering a “spoon” bonnet can be on the wrong size head!

Here is something quite unique. These photographs were taken in the late 1800s. The young woman pictured is wearing an 1820s dress with a “calash” bonnet (very typical of the late 18th century through the early 19th). Perhaps she is modeling what her grandmother wore? At any rate, it is a fascinating look at a [...]

These photos technically belong in the Victorian category, since they were taken in 1897, but the fashions are pure Regency, so I decided to share them in both categories.