The Victorian era, spanning from 1837 to 1901, was marked by Queen Victoria’s reign in Britain. This period was not only a time of profound change in sciences, technology, and politics, but also a defining moment for the evolution of fashion, setting the stage for modern trends that still influence us today.
The architectural silhouette of the Mid-Victorian, known as the crinoline period, was one of the most striking features of this era. The iconic bell-shaped skirt, accentuating a woman’s waist and giving prominence to her lower half, was a prevalent style. These skirts were stiffened with a crinoline, a structured petticoat or cage of sprung steel rings. This contraption, cumbersome and sometimes dangerous near open flames, gave the illusion of a voluptuous figure while liberating women from heavy petticoats.
While the crinoline defined the shape, fabrics and colors exuded wealth and status. Satins, silks, and velvets in deep, rich hues of burgundy, forest green, and midnight blue were associated with the upper class. These materials were often adorned with intricate lacework and detailed embroidery, enhancing their volume and grandeur. Fashion was not merely about aesthetics, but was a testament to the wealth and status of the wearer.
Men’s fashion, on the other hand, was less flamboyant but equally distinct. The three-piece suit became a staple, with the conceit of the well-dressed gentleman hinging on his waistcoat. It was during this era that the bowler hat also gained prominence, along with the refined elegance of the silk top hat. Coats were tailored to cinch in at the waist and flare out at the hips, creating a dignified, masculine silhouette.
The late Victorian age, however, saw a departure from the voluminous crinoline silhouette. The bustle, a pad or frame worn at the back of a skirt to enhance the fullness, became a statement piece. This shift was not merely stylistic, but a reflection of the changing societal dynamics, with increasing women’s participation in the workforce necessitating more practical clothing.
Jewelry was another distinctive facet of Victorian fashion. Cameos, made from shell or coral, depicted scenes or portraits and were popularly worn as brooches or pendants. Gold lockets, often containing a loved one’s photograph or lock of hair, were another common accessory, symbolizing the era’s romanticism and sentimentality.
Footwear, too, evolved significantly during the Victorian era. With the advent of the sewing machine, shoes became more elaborate with frills, bows and ribbons. Women’s boots, particularly the ankle-length boot with side-lacing, gained popularity for their practicality and appeal.
The Victorian era, with its evolving silhouettes, opulent fabrics, distinctive accessories, and the advent of the sewing machine, revolutionized the direction of fashion. This period not only underscored the interplay between fashion and societal changes but also highlighted the role of fashion as a powerful symbol of status and identity. Today, we can still see traces of Victorian influence in fashion, a testament to its enduring impact.