During the Second Empire, the female silhouette was characterised by extremely voluminous skirts supported by what was known as a “crinoline”. A cascade of light fabrics concealed the underlying metal hoop carcass. More than the cut, the fabrics gave the dresses the soft, billowing undulations that hid the imposing cage. Gathers, small tight pleats, piping and flounces structured the bodice and covered the protruding edges of the steel structure in a mist of tulle, gauze or, as here, cotton muslin.
- Dates: 1861
- Mode d'acquisition : Given by Madame Pascal
- Matériaux et techniques : Cotton muslin, silk tulle
- 1967.80.1