Elizabeth Monroe wore floor-length gowns made of luxurious fabrics like silk, satin, and velvet. Her gowns often featured intricate details such as lace trim, embroidery, and ruffles.
Bodices:
The fitted bodice of her gowns emphasized her waist and featured low necklines. Some of her gowns had square or V-shaped necklines.
Sleeves:
Her gowns had long sleeves that were often puffed at the shoulder and fitted at the wrist.
Skirts:
The skirts of her gowns were usually full and gathered at the waist. She also wore overskirts that added volume and elegance to her appearance.
Mantles and Shawls:
Elizabeth Monroe often draped herself in luxurious mantles or shawls to complete her outfits. These were typically made of rich fabrics like velvet or fur and added warmth and elegance to her attire.
Empire Waist Dresses:
During her time as First Lady, Elizabeth Monroe helped to popularize the Empire waist dress, which featured a high waistline just below the bust.
Colors:
Elizabeth Monroe favored bold and vibrant colors, such as red, blue, and green. Her gowns often featured contrasting colors and patterns.
Accessories:
Elizabeth Monroe accessorized her gowns with jewelry such as necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. She also wore gloves, fans, and small handbags.
Hairstyles:
Elizabeth Monroe wore her hair in various styles, including elaborate updos, curls, and braids. Her hairstyles were often adorned with feathers, ribbons, and other decorative elements.