Red Bustle

This semi-circular skirt bustle is made of of rust-red cotton satin. Eleven arch-shaped steel ribbons, which grow larger downwards, are incorporated into its back. It is open in front and fastens only at the waist with a button closure and natural-coloured ribbon. Inside there are two linen pieces with cord lacing to the right and left of the steel rings to enhance the supporting effect. The hemline is covered with a small scalloped edge. As was the case with the steel ring crinoline (cat. no. 66), this bustle is made of strong red fabric. Warm red tones became very popular for petticoats after the invention of aniline dyes in 1856.