Fashion in the Victorian Era: A Glimpse into the Attire of Young Girls in 1870
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Fashion in the Victorian Era: A Glimpse into the Attire of Young Girls in 1870
The year 1870 marked the heart of the Victorian era, a period characterized by strict social conventions and a focus on decorum. This extended to fashion, particularly for young girls. Their attire reflected not only the prevailing aesthetic but also the societal expectations placed upon them.
The Importance of Modesty and Propriety:
The primary principle guiding girls’ clothing in 1870 was modesty. Dresses were designed to conceal the body, emphasizing a demure and refined image. This stemmed from the Victorian belief that girls should be protected from unwanted attention and that their innocence should be preserved.
The Silhouette of a Young Victorian:
The typical silhouette for girls in 1870 featured a long, flowing skirt that reached the ankles or even dragged on the ground. This length ensured that their legs were always covered, even when playing or running. The skirt was often gathered at the waist and sometimes adorned with frills or lace, adding a touch of elegance.
The Role of the Corset:
While corsets were primarily worn by adult women, young girls were also subjected to this restrictive garment. Though not as tightly laced as their mothers’ corsets, they still served to shape the body and emphasize a small waist. This practice, while considered harmful today, reflected the Victorian ideal of a delicate and fragile feminine form.
Undergarments and Layers:
Underneath the dress, girls wore several layers of undergarments, including a chemise, a corset cover, and sometimes a petticoat. These layers provided support and warmth, as well as contributing to the overall fullness of the skirt.
Materials and Patterns:
The fabrics used for girls’ dresses varied depending on their age and social standing. Cotton was a popular choice for everyday wear, while silk and velvet were reserved for special occasions. Popular patterns included floral prints, stripes, and checks, often in muted colors like pastels or browns.
Accessories and Details:
Accessories played a significant role in completing a young girl’s ensemble. Ribbons were frequently used to tie back hair, decorate collars, or accentuate the waistline. Hats were also essential, particularly for outdoor wear, and were often adorned with feathers, flowers, or ribbons.
The Influence of Age and Social Class:
The style of clothing varied according to a girl’s age and social status. Younger girls often wore simpler dresses with fewer embellishments, while older girls embraced more elaborate designs and fabrics. Girls from wealthy families enjoyed more luxurious materials and intricate details, reflecting their family’s status and wealth.
Beyond the Dress:
While dresses were the cornerstone of a young girl’s wardrobe, other items were also essential. These included pinafores, worn over dresses for protection and practicality, and shawls, which provided warmth and served as a fashion statement.
The Evolution of Girls’ Fashion in 1870:
While the Victorian era was characterized by a strong adherence to tradition, fashion did evolve throughout the 1870s. The skirts gradually became slightly shorter, and the silhouette shifted away from the extreme fullness of earlier years.
The Significance of Girls’ Fashion in 1870:
The clothing worn by young girls in 1870 reflects the societal norms and values of the Victorian era. It highlights the emphasis on modesty, propriety, and the idealized feminine form. Understanding these fashion choices provides insights into the lives of young girls in this period and their role within Victorian society.
FAQs about Girls’ Fashion in 1870:
Q: Did girls wear trousers in 1870?
A: No, trousers were considered inappropriate for girls in 1870. They were reserved for men and boys.
Q: What type of shoes did girls wear?
A: Girls typically wore leather shoes with laces or buckles. They were often plain in design and made for practicality rather than fashion.
Q: How did girls’ fashion differ from adult women’s fashion?
A: While sharing some similarities, girls’ fashion was generally simpler and less elaborate than adult women’s fashion. They did not wear the same intricate corsets or elaborate hairstyles.
Q: What were the biggest fashion trends for girls in 1870?
A: The biggest trends included long, flowing skirts, gathered at the waist, and adorned with ribbons, lace, or frills. Floral prints, stripes, and checks were popular patterns, and pastel colors were favored.
Tips for Understanding Girls’ Fashion in 1870:
- Examine period paintings and photographs: These visual sources provide valuable insights into the styles and details of girls’ clothing.
- Research fashion magazines and catalogues: These publications offer a glimpse into the available styles and fabrics of the era.
- Visit museums and historical societies: Museums often have exhibits dedicated to Victorian fashion, showcasing original garments and accessories.
Conclusion:
The fashion choices of young girls in 1870 provide a fascinating window into the Victorian era. Their clothing reflected the societal expectations of modesty, propriety, and the idealized feminine form. While the restrictions of the time may seem limiting today, understanding these fashion choices helps us appreciate the cultural context of the past and the evolution of women’s clothing over time.
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