Summer Dress with Panels of Floral Fabric

anonymous, c. 1869 - c. 1872

This kind of thin cotton dress was worn in daytime in the summer. The long draped apron at the back of the bodice enhances the effect of a bustle (a construction to puff out the skirt at the back). The sleeves reprise 18th-century models and are provided with lace ruffles resembling engageantes (lace undersleeves).