Walking Dress, October 1810

La Belle Assemblée, October 1810.

“Pelisse Dress of Autumn”

This is, of course, my personal opinion, but I always classify this ensemble as a Regency Fashion Disaster. There is just way too much going on, and most of it unflattering. I need only mention the odd net mantle with the dangling acorns, the cut-out decoration strategically placed over each breast, and the sheaf of wheat stuck into the front of the bonnet. I think even the dog is frightened! Would anyone actually wear this? I adore Regency fashion, but sometimes, just as today, the magazines deliver a dud.

The print is described in the magazine as follows:

“A pelisse of autumnal brown sarsnet, made low in the neck, trimmed down the front and round the bottom with a rich trimming of vandyked white satin, ornamented with silver frogs; the sleeves buttons on the inside of the arm, to correspond with he front of the dress; over the bosom is tied a light white net mantle, scolloped, and ornamented with acorn tassels. White satin bonnet, with a bunch of wheat in front, and short lace veil. Brown sandals and gloves. Green parasol.”

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