This dress has all the most fashionable features of 1913-14: a bold colour scheme, high-low hem, square train, tunic effect, metallic lace, pointed peplum (also seen in more casual garments like the Selina Blouse), slightly-higher-than-natural waist, kimono sleeves…
This early 1860s evening gown is made of pink silk moiré, trimmed with black velvet, blond and black lace (probably machine made), and sheer silk. It is probably in two parts, with a seperate bodice and skirt. The skirt is tightly gathered in to the waist with tiny pleats. There is slightly more fullness at the back of the skirt than the front, as fashion transitions from the bell shaped hoop of the 1850s to the elliptical shape of the 1860s. The bodice sits off-the-shoulders, creating the sloped shoulder silhouette that was fashionable at the time.
The bold patterning is balanced both by the muted colours, and by a very severe, fitted silhouette, which bursts out into typical 1880s extravagance only at the hem, cuffs, and in the draping of the bustle.
