Women's Fashion
Early Victorian Period (1837-1860)
In the early Victorian period, women's dresses were classified by usually long sleeves that hung loosely around the arms. The waist hugged the middle area very tightly, and from the waist down, the skirts then puffed out like a large umbrella, just touching the ground. These dresses were all very detailed, made with heavy fabrics. The neckline on most dresses were high and modest, but low enough to show a necklace. Dress colors were kept simple, such as light pinks, beige and white. Outerwear included a bonnet, usually of similar color to the dress. A petticoat or shawl was also worn for warmth when outside. These dresses were usually made for doing housework and other simple tasks, as this was before people really started to follow Queen Victoria's fashion trends.
Mid to Late Victorian Period (1861-1901)
During this time, the style of dress changed drastically. The dresses became much more elaborate, because Queen Victoria was becoming a huge influence. The dresses in this time were brightly colored, and were made to fit and show off a women's figure. The sleeves on the dress were fitted, and usually covered the arm about three quarters. The dresses were styled almost suit-like, with collars and shoulder pads. Dresses became more low-cut, which allowed for a wider range of jewelry. For the skirt, dresses puffed out slightly at the hips, but more so toward the buttocks to accentuate the womanly figure. The bottom of the dress gracefully flowed out into a long train that would drag behind the woman as she walked.