The 1880s are characterized by a full, curvy silhouette with gradually widening shoulders. The early 1890s dresses consisted of a tight bodice with a skirt gathered at the waist and falling more naturally over the hips than in previous years. The midmid-1890s introduced the huge sleeves, which grew in size each year until they disappeared in the beginning of the XX century. During the same period, skirts took on an A-line silhouette that was almost bell-like. Laces, embroidery and natural ornaments were commonly used for decoration.

The costume design was aimed at highlighting the femininity, so it was the time of the Edwardian ‘health’ corset, sometimes called a ‘pouter pigeon’ bust. It kept the body routinely stood at an angle of 33 degrees and had a S-shape that followed the ‘natural’ contours of the female form. 

This woman could participate in social life but not actively. She was a observer.

Do you want to know more? 

• Ignacio Zuloaga, Friends, 1896
• Ramon Martí i Alsina, The Woman of the Fruits, 1878-1882
• Ramon Martí i Alsina, Female Figure with Doves, 1860-1870
• Anonymous, Wiener Rundschau, 1896-1902

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