Evening dresses
The Bodice
Cut low off the shoulders either square or having a slight dip in the centre. It was often edged with rows of horizontal pleats which curved down to a point at the waist.
A lace tucker was usual and a deep ‘Bertha’ was almost essential. A ‘Bertha’ was a deep falling border made up of one or more lace frills, ribbon or fancy decoration that usually covered the sleeves.
The evening bodice had a pointed waist, boned, which became longer and sharper after 1846.
The Sleeve
The sleeve was short and tight and initialled edged with frill which soon became insignificant being hidden by the deep Bertha and lace frills.
Colours
Delicate tints which were always in harmony became the preference during this period and primary colours were thought to be bad taste. Printed materials with all over patterns though not glaring were common. The new fabrics available presented a host of new pattern usually small floral’s or very narrow stripes.
Outdoor garments
The Shawl
Came in various sizes but most often consisted of very large squares with a richly fringed edge. In the summer figured silks or embroidered organdie and in winter cashmere with woven or printed design. Paisley shawls were also fashionable.
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