gardenfork

1890s

This riding outfit or walking dress is of red and black wool with matching velveteen. The long pointed bodice fastens on the left side with jet buttons. The standing collar and cuffs are velveteen. An overskirt of wool is arranged to fall in a leaf-shaped piece on the front of the underskirt, and is put in full at the waist. The sides are long and flowing and the back is puffed over a bustle. The underskirt is mounted on a cotton foundation. Cording or braid is still used along the bottom of the skirt to take the wear. The bodice is completely lined and worked as one piece of material. A black petticoat and bustle are underneath. High black leather shoes are popular. It is now difficult to distinguish between the hat and the bonnet.

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