Exploring the Fashion Revolution of the Victorian Era: A Tour through the Wardrobe
The Victorian era, spanning from 1837 to 1901, was a time of great cultural, economic, and social change in England. One of the most notable changes was in fashion, which underwent a revolution during this time. The fashion of the Victorian era was defined by intricate dresses, corsets, and hats, and is still celebrated and emulated today. In this article, we will take a tour through the wardrobe of the Victorian era to explore the fashion revolution that took place.
The Early Victorian Era (1837-1850)
During the early Victorian era, fashion was heavily influenced by Queen Victoria herself, who was known for her conservative taste in clothing. Women’s dresses were long and simple, with small waists and narrow sleeves. The waistline was placed high, just below the bust, and the skirt was full and floor-length. Petticoats were worn to add fullness to the skirt, and bodices were tightly fitted.
Accessories were also popular during this time, including lace and fringe, and gloves were considered a must for any outfit. Hats were also a common accessory, with bonnets being the most popular. Men’s fashion during this time was more conservative, including waistcoats, trousers, and top hats.
The Mid-Victorian Era (1850-1870)
The mid-Victorian era saw a significant shift in fashion for women, with the introduction of the crinoline. The crinoline was a cage-like structure worn underneath the dress to create an exaggerated hourglass shape. The skirt was wider, with a bell shape, and dresses were adorned with elaborate embroidery and trim.
Men’s fashion also saw a change during this time, with the introduction of the frock coat. The frock coat was a long, fitted coat worn over the waistcoat and trousers, and often accompanied by a stovepipe hat.
The Late Victorian Era (1870-1901)
The late Victorian era was characterized by even more elaborate and intricate fashion, with the bustle becoming popular for women’s dresses. The bustle was a padded structure that was worn at the back of the dress around the waist, creating a dramatic effect. The skirt was narrower at the front and wider at the back, creating a train-like effect.
In addition to the bustle, women’s dresses were adorned with ruffles, lace, and fringe. Accessories such as fans, parasols, and gloves were also popular. Men’s fashion during this time was more formal, with the introduction of the tailcoat, which was worn with trousers, a white wing-collared shirt, and a bow tie.
The Legacy of Victorian Fashion
The fashion revolution of the Victorian era had a lasting impact on fashion, with many trends and styles continuing to be popular to this day. The elegant and elaborate designs of the era continue to inspire fashion designers and enthusiasts, and its influence can be seen in contemporary fashion.
In conclusion, exploring the fashion revolution of the Victorian era through the wardrobe is a fascinating journey. From the simplicity of the early Victorian era to the extravagance of the late era, the fashion of the time was a reflection of the cultural and social changes taking place. The legacy of this era continues to be felt today, making it an important source of inspiration for fashion enthusiasts everywhere.
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