Get Know The Victorian Era
During the Victorian era, women’s fashion underwent significant changes. Queen Victoria’s reign from the mid-19th century to the early 20th century was a time of strict social norms and conservative values, which were reflected in women’s clothing.
In the earlier years of the Victorian era, women’s clothing was relatively plain and conservative, with long dresses and a loose fitting blouses made of cotton or silk. Skirts were usually floor-length and had a fullness to them, while bodices were often boned and structured to create a shape. Collars and cuffs were often starched and decorated with lace or ribbon.
Later in the Victorian era, fashion became more elaborate, with intricate details and embroidery. Skirt widths increased, and petticoats became an essential layer to create fullness and volume. Women often wore multiple petticoats, each of a different size and shape, to achieve the desired look. Petticoats were usually white or ivory and could be made of cotton, silk, or even steel to provide structure and support.
Footwear also changed during the Victorian era, with women wearing closed-toe shoes called “pumps” or “slippers” made of leather or velvet. Heels were often low, and shoes were decorated with bows or lace.
Overall, Victorian women’s fashion was conservative and reflect the era’s values of modesty and decorum. Fashion trends changed over time, but women’s clothing remained relatively structured and formal throughout the Victorian era.