La Belle Assemblée, July 1812.
“Evening Dress”
I love that the lady is shown standing at her dressing table, as though getting ready to go to a ball or party. Or is she just returning home? Note that she is wearing large hoop earrings. Most people don’t associate hoop earrings with the Regency, but they were very popular.
The print is described in the magazine as follows:
“A pale willow green, shot with white, or plain white gossamer satin slip, with a demi-train fringed with silver; short close sleeves the same as the slip, terminated with rows of scallops. Short Grecian robe of white crape, embroidered and fringed with silver; the waist of satin, ornamented with pearls, beads, or a delicate trimming of silver; girdles à la repentie, formed of silver cordon and rich silver tassels. Anne of Denmark hat of white satin, with a long white ostrich feather drooping over the front, and surmounted by a small bunch of rosebuds or wild honeysuckles; pearl bandeau discovered on the right side of the head. Maltese earrings of pearl and sapphires, with pearl necklace and cross to correspond. White satin slippers, fringed with silver. White kid gloves. The shawl or long mantle generally thrown over this dress should be of Maria Louisa blue, with very deep fringe. This elegant dress is the invention of Mrs. Thomas, corner of Chancery Lane, Fleet Street.”
