Tea Gown Back view

In 1922, etiquette expert, Emily Post (1872–1960), described the tea gown as “a hybrid between a wrapper and a ball dress… it is made of rather gorgeous materials and goes on easily…” A luxurious style of at-home attire, the tea gown was frequently characterized by exotic and historicizing elements. Remembered for her generosity and her elegant style, Richmond philanthropist, Mrs. Elizabeth G. Schneider (1914–2004), broke with her usual cool palette with this bright coral goddess-draped tea gown.