Detail of a moiré silk-overlayaid and machine lace-trimmed skirt, lined with satin. Designer unknown, c. 1885.

“May Littledale (née Primrose) wore this romantic ball gown shortly after her marriage to Henry Littledale in 1885. Unfortunately she did not have long to enjoy it as she died in a riding accident the following year…

During this period drapery was often composed of separate pieces mounted onto the foundation skirt rather than being formed by the cut of the skirt. Here, a small cushion sewn into the back of the waist and a stiffened lining pulled into shape by tapes help the skirt project behind while remaining flat in front…”

(Source: Victoria & Albert Museum Collections)