Silk Taffeta Day Dress, 1863-1870

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Silk Taffeta Day Dress, 1863-1870

This dress had four incarnations, lasting nearly a decade, adapting to fashion changes. Here’s the likely timeline:

1. 1863: Bodice made with a pointed waistline, separate skirt of straight panels evenly gathered into the waistband

2. 1864: Dress made one-piece, allowing skirt to cover pointed waistline now out of style

3. 1865: Skirt reconfigured with side gores to lie flatter in front and fuller in back

4. 1869-70: Three pairs of twill tape ties are sewn into the skirt lining at the back. When tied, they raise the skirt into the new bustle shape. This style could work for another year or two.

Silk, cotton lining, replacement lower sleeves and buttons. Gift of Elizabeth Ann Coleman 2010.34.4