Vintage Fashion Guild Timeline 1800 - 1810
 ca 1807 Silk Dress,courtesy Linda Ames, vintagetextile.com The fashion canvas of the 18th century changed radically as the 19th century began and simpler, lighter brushstrokes were applied. Fashion in the first two decades mimicked classical Grecian drapery with its fluid lines. Bodices were minimal, cut to end under the bust thereby achieving a high waist that defined the silhouette. Predominately necklines were low. Sleeves could be long or short.
 ca 1805-1809 Silk Gown, courtesy Deborah Burke, antiquetextile.com The fiddle back bodice with side, back and shoulder seams that were placed to form a diamond shape, was typical of this period. The use of tiny piping to finish seams began in this decade.
Dresses generally opened in the front, with pins or drawstrings as the closures, while the skirts of the dresses had side openings, if any at all. The desired effect was one of simplicity. White was the most popular color and any applied trimming was used sparingly.
 ca 1810-1812 Cotton Neoclassic Gown, courtesy Linda Ames, vintagetextile.com Fabrics were lightweight with embroidery and details that did not interrupt the aesthetic flow. Outerwear consisted of Spencer jackets (waist-length jackets named after Lord Spencer) pelisses (a type of sleeved cloak) and the ubiquitous long shawl.
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