Welcome to the next installment of Top 5 Favorite Tuesdays. This time around we will be looking at extant museum pieces. As we know, very little clothing survives the ages. Since all clothing was made from natural fiber before the modern era, garments would, and could, just rot away. Only the items that held special meaning or value were preserved and stored. Social class structure also played a part in what has survived. The lower class, or working class, most often wore their garments until they fell off. Literally. The upper class could afford to have several sets of garments made, often of the more expensive materials such as silks, fine muslins and cottons. So, without further ado, here are my picks for the extant museum pieces.
1. From the Kyoto Costume Institute – Jacket, 1790 France
This is a lovely example of a womens’ jacket. It is made of a plain, striped silk. I like the simplicity of the design, and the tailored look. And, of course, the stripes appeal to me. lol. The large, turn down collar and double row of buttons complete the look. This look was usually inspired by English Country wear that became popular after the 1770′s, and was inspired by mens’ hunting and riding jackets.
2. From the Victoria & Albert Museum - Dress, c. 1869 United Kingdom
This lovely dress is from the Victorian Early Bustle era. It is made of cotton muslin, and trimmed with satin, bobbin lace and white work. The appeal of this dress is the simple white color, and emerald green satin trim. The style is indicative of a day dress. This typically would have been worn during the summer, as the bodice is unlined, most likely being worn over an opaque underdress.
3. From the Metropolitan Museum of Art - Dress (Robe a la Polonaise), 1780-85 American
This dress is made from a lovely shade of yellow silk. The 18th century polonaise style is on of my favorites. The floral design is painted onto the material. The back of the overskirts are pulled up “Polonaise” style. The petticoat is made from matching material, and has a matching pleated trim.
4. From the Metropolitan Museum of Art – Dress (Robe a l’Anglaise), c. 1790 American or European
This is another lovely dress made of silk. This style appeals to me almost as much as the polonaise. This dress also features a matching petticoat. The dress itself has a pinked trim made from matching material around the neckline, sleeves and down the front of the overskirt.
5. From the Los Angeles County Museum of Art - Woman’s Redingote, c. 1790 Europe
This “riding coat” is make of silk. This is another lovely example of the “English Country” style. This design features a full length overskirt, the large, turn down collar and single row of buttons covered in matching fabric. The back of the skirts has a feature made to look like coat tails, with more fabric covered buttons.
ETA: Don’t forget, tomorrow (February 29th) is the last day to enter in the pattern giveaway. If you would like to enter, be sure to comment on this post for your shot at the prize!
