18th-century gown of silk with silver trimmings.
Now, at the outset, I have to apologize for how dark most of these photos are. It’s not Lindsay’s fault at all. The Bath Fashion Museum has a fabulous collection, but, unfortunately, its displays are just about the worst when it comes to overall layout and, most especially, good lighting. You spend most of your time squinting into glass cases that reflect your own image back better than they showcase what’s inside. Yet some displays have lighting so bright that you have problems with overexposure. Suzi has refused on principle to visit the museum for years–LOL! But, all griping aside, the collection is lovely, and I hope in future they improve the layout and design. There’s such amazing potential in the Assembly Rooms for gorgeous display; it’s bound to happen one of these days. In the meantime, here’s a peek at what Lindsay captured.
A selection of ladies' underthings through the centuries. The ornate slips (teddies) are from the 1920s.
These incredibly detailed men's gauntlets are from the 1600s.
Gorgeous 18th-century saque-back gown, surrounded, oddly enough, by wine glasses. Go figure...
Sleeve detail from another 18th-century gown...
This Regency gown is absolutely covered in silvery beads.
Early 1830s gown with sheer sleeves over the trademark wide, puffed sleeves of the Romantic era.
Mourning dress that belonged to Queen Victoria. She was incredibly short-statured.
Ornate bustle gown from the 1880s.
Stunning ballgown from the 1890s.
And a close-up of the luscious bodice!
Wish I could show you more, but the lighting just didn’t give Lindsay enough help. 
Next time I’ll share pictures from our gorgeous Sunday in Bath!
From Laura Carpenter:
Oooh the silk lampas in the 18th century sleeve detail photo is to die for! Lovely photos despite the challenges of bad lighting and reflective glass.
From Miss Rachel:
Oh my oh my oh my… a loss for any other words… beautiful doesn’t seem to describe them… wishing they were mine…
From JodieR:
How wonderful! I have been having lighting problems with other exhibitions as well… it’s very frustrating!
From Melanie A. from the forum:
Beautiful!
The 1830′s dress reminds me of something Lady Harriet from “Wives and Daughters” would wear!
From Patricia Dudley - smith:
Stunningly Jaw Dropping. The regency gown with the silver beads just has my name all over it! Patricia
From Anna:
I was just wondering if all of this stuff is really from the 1800 and 1600s or if it’s a reproduction
From Jennie Chancey:
It’s all original, Anna!
From Lorrie:
Thanks for posting these. The 18th century gowns are especially amazing.