Ackermann’s Repository of Arts, May 1816.
“Evening Dress.”
We start to see large plumes again beginning in the second half of 1815, and though never as tall as those in the 1790s, they will begin to get taller through the end of the decade. Like in the 1790s, we see some plumes as the only head-dress, attached to the hair with combs or other devices. But unlike the 1790s, we see very few turbans with plumes. From 1815 forward, the majority of plumes are attached to caps (as here) and toques and other types of head-dresses.
This dress shows all the fashionable elements of the late Regency period: very high waist and very tiny bodice, the beginnings of a bell-shaped skirt, and serious ornamentation at the hemline.
The print is described in the magazine as follows:
“A white satin slip, over which is a white lace dress, ornamented with three quillings of white lace on the skirt, intermixed with bows of white satin ribbon. The body and sleeve, both of which are richly ornamented with coloured stones, are formed, as our readers will see by the print, in a very novel style. Head-dress, a cap composed of white satin, finished with a band edged with pearls, and a superb plume of white feathers. Necklace, ear-rings, and bracelets, coloured stones intermixed with pearls. White satin slippers, and white kid gloves.
“We are again indebted to the elegant inventions of Mrs. Gill, of Cork-street, Burlington-Gardens, for both our dresses this month [including this one].”
