British Lady’s Magazine, October 1819.
“Sea Side Walking Dress.”
This is not my favorite period of fashion, but I think this is such a charming print. Love the tiny boats in the water and the gulls flying overhead. And note that the lady has a basket by her side.
The last years of the Regency bring hats with much smaller crowns and exploding brims. The spencer is also typical of the period, with emphasis on the shoulders. It does seem odd, though, to wear a spencer of satin, a very elegant fabric, while walking on the seashore.
The print is described in the magazine as follows:
“A high robe of clear worked muslin, with falling collar, interjoined and trimmed with lace, bordered at the feet with a deep flounce of rich needlework, or scolloped muslin. A bright blue satin spencer, with full puffings on the shoulders, and confined with pipings of white satin: cafts [?] to correspond. An elegant imperial purple scarf, negligently worn over the arm. Gold chain and opera-glass. An elegant bonnet of clear muslin, rich and tastefully trimmed. A cluster of the double-stock and carnation, or a tasteful combination of colours, as may suit the complexion of the wearer. A long veil of French lace. Gloves and shoes to suit the spencer.”
