The 1830s & 1840s

1830s

This era was the highlight of Industrial revolution! The Industrial Revolution marks a major turning point in history; almost every aspect of daily life was influenced in some way. In particular, average income and population began to exhibit unprecedented sustained growth. Society was focused upon this quick acquisition of wealth and the accumulation of property. The role of women was suppressed to that of 'property', a wife was the 'property' of her husband, daughters were the 'property' of their fathers, etc. And fashion responded, with a doll-like, infantilized look.

The Nouveau Riche were living large so the silhouette responded. Heavy stiff fabrics such as brocades came back into style, and many 18th-century gowns were brought down from attics and cut up into new garments. The waistline drops, but not to the waist and ankle-revealing skirts came to the picture - not for more sexiness, but for the doll-like look. The large Gigot sleeves looked like a leg of lamb and were filled with sleeve Plumbers (sacks of light feathers that were attached to the corset to keep sleeves puffy). A 'Pelerine' was a large fichu that covered the shoulders for adding more the doll-like look.

Men wore wasp-waisted coats, trousers and large black hats, named 'Toppers' (look at Margo's post!). They remind you of chimney's from fabrics, boats or trains,...

1840s

The downside of this revolution was the extortion of factory workers. They lived very poorly and their children also worked in very bad circumstances. In the 1840s social awareness became 'fashionable' about the awful inhumane conditions of the industrial workers.

Industrial factory workers were recognizable by their tight wrapped shawls and the bourgeoisie responded... The fashion silhouette changed into tight sleeves and a longer skirt with a shawl-like bodice.

Go have a look at Margo's beautiful drawings! And know more about their hair, headdresses and make-up!