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1840s
Within the 1840s theGothic era was arriving. This fashion style was fashion lines wilted into dropping ringlets and ragging skirts. The skirts hems lowered to the floors, the shoulders are extended below the natural line, and the sleeves lost there fullness and were fitted. Usually the necklines were worn higher during the day and were worn wide in the evening. -
1850s
In the 1855s the hoop or the cage crinoline had swayed down on to the scene and there skirts would expand down to the ground. The women had no problem with wearing a cage as it would be hiding the weight of the women. The hoop can be seen on ladies, maids, the middle class and shop girls. -
1860s
This is the ear of the skirts. The round hoop of the 1860s turned into the oval hoop by 1864. As the skirts were in the process of developing, the back emphasis saw a creation of the first bustle. This was during 1868. The soft, big, high and very draped skirt enjoyed it's popularity for about 8 years. -
1870s
The shoulders were allowed return to the position nature intended in the 1870s. Between 1876 and 1878 the long line cuirass the bodice appeared. This would reach up to the hips in all its molded. The bodice for the day had a high neckline and fitted sleeves withs pleated or ruffled cuffs at the wrists. There was a new and different look for the evening. A three-quarter length sleeve with a square like neckline. -
1880s
In 1983 there was a popular demand, they brought back the bustle with changes. There was now a more narrow width and was worn at a lower placement. The dresses were worn over this new frame with a sturdier, being constructed in heavier fabrics, such a velvet, wool, and satin. The colours were darker with bottle green, navy blue, deep wine, and black coming to the fore.
