1860s Signature Dress

1860′s fashion was all about a small waistline. All elements of a garment were constructed to make the waistline appear smaller in comparison.

Skirts were dome like, held out by petticoats for young girls or cage crinolines for teens and adults. Young girls wore their skirts just below their knees, over meant-to-be-seen pantalettes. They were tucked with multiple “grow” stripes. As a girl grew older, her skirts would be lengthened, reaching floor length only in her later teen years. The unfaded fabric, exposed when a grow stripe was released, was often concealed with band trim or multiple rows of braid.

Bodices were closely fitted with princess seams or darts. Necklines were demure and high for day wear. Shoulders were ”dropped”, cut very wide and the seams pushed to the back of the bodice to create a triangular silhouette that drew attention to the waist. Young girls wore short puffed sleeves in almost all seasons, as it was a common belief that exposure to cold would strengthen a child’s health.

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The dolls, scenes, clothing and accessories are for display purposes only and are never included in the sale. You are purchasing the PDF pattern only.