- Natural fibers such as cotton, wool, linen, and silk were predominantly used.
- Synthetic materials like nylon and polyester were not yet invented.
- Wool and cotton were the most common materials for everyday wear, while silk and linen were used for special occasions.
Styles and silhouettes
- Women's clothing was often characterized by long, flowing skirts, corsets, and bustles.
- Dresses and blouses typically had high collars.
- Men's clothing included tailored suits, waistcoats, and bowlers hats.
- Trousers were often high-waisted and wide-legged.
- Both men and women wore long underwear for warmth.
Accessories
- Women's accessories included hats, gloves, parasols, and jewelry.
- Men's accessories included pocket watches, walking sticks, and umbrellas.
Tailoring and construction
- Clothing was often made by hand, either by dressmakers or at home.
- Sewing machines were available but not as common as they are today.
- Clothing was often well-made and designed to last, with details such as hand-stitching and embroidery.
Colors and patterns
- Colors in clothing were often dark and muted.
- Patterns were often used, such as stripes, plaids, and florals.
- Clothing was often embellished with lace, ribbons, and buttons.
Social and cultural influences
- Clothing styles were influenced by social class, occupation, and cultural norms.
- For example, the wealthy wore more expensive and elaborate clothing than the poor, and women's clothing was more restrictive than men's clothing.
Technological advancements
- The Industrial Revolution brought about new technologies that influenced the clothing industry.
- Mass production of ready-to-wear clothing became possible, making clothing more affordable and accessible to a wider range of people.