Summer Dress with Panels of Floral Fabric, anonymous, c. 1869 - c. 1872

printing, More details

This kind of thin cotton dress was worn in daytime in the summer. The long draped apron at the back of the bodice enhances the effect of a bustle (a construction to puff out the skirt at the back). The sleeves reprise 18th-century models and are provided with lace ruffles resembling engageantes (lace undersleeves).