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1870s dress front

1870s dress side

1870s dress skirt detail

1870s dress back

1870s dress bodice detail

This dress is based on May Welland's archery dress from the movie "The Age of Innocence".  It is constructed with an underskirt, several layers of ruffles and an attached ruched overskirt at the top.  The skirt and overskirt are made of muslin, the ruffles are alternating layers of gauze and lace, and the front of the bodice is embroidered eyelet cotton.  The bodice has a long lace-edged pleats at the back, and a satin sash which comes almost to the floor.  Details of the hand-embroidered cuffs and collar can be seen on the embroidery page.

As a natural form era dress, this is worn without a bustle, but with a ruffled petticoat to give the dress some lift at the back.  A corset is necessary with this style of dress for the best effect, as the bodice is so tightly fitted.