Empire Gown with High Collar

The intricate cut of this one-piece gown in unadorned muslin documents the problems seamstresses faced with the dress closures in light of the new corset-less fashions that could no longer be pinned to the stiff undergarments. The frilled, puffed sleeves are attached at the top rear and guided forward over the shoulder. The front top portion, with its high cut collar overlays this and fastens in turn, along with the collar, with small buttons at the back. The front portions of the skirt are also affixed in the back. The only ornamentation on this simple gown is the bobbin lace border with fringed trim that adorns the side seams, collars, sleeves and hemline. Crossing tucks offer structure to the smooth top portion. The high collar and more elaborately designed short sleeves suggest a date after 1810.