Ackermann’s Repository of Arts, June 1818.
“Walking Dress.”
The emphasis on the shoulders, the loose-fitting sleeve, and the bell-shaped skirt are all characteristic of this late Regency period. All those elements will become exaggerated in the next decade.
The hat, called a toque, became very popular in this late period. It was basically a close-fitting turban-like hat without a brim. As with most other styles of hat at this time, it was excessively decorated with flowers and bows and other ornaments.
The print is described in the magazine as follows:
“A high dress composed of pea-green sarsnet, made very short in the waist, and with a plain broad back. Long sleeve, rather loose, finished at the bottom with white satin honeycombed. A very full epaulette sleeve, the fullness confined in compartments by silk trimming. The collar is ornamented in a similar style; it stands back, and displays the lace collerette or frill worn underneath. The waist is ornamented by a band and tassel, and the bottom of the skirt finished with folds of pea-green satin and rich silk trimming placed alternately. Head-dress, a pea-green satin toque, ornamented with flowers. Gloves and shoes to correspond.”
And after the description of the second print:
“We are indebted to the invention and taste of Miss Macdonald of 50, South Molton-street, for both our dresses this month.”
