Walking gown 

Description:

This two-piece taupe faille walking gown features sateen trim on a tightly-fitted bodice, iridescent buttons depicting a romantic mill scene, mandarin collar with detachable ruff, a flounced and ruffled skirt and bustle, complete with panniers of sateen. The gown was worn by Alice Jane Tooke, Sheridan, NY, at her wedding ceremony to Nelson G. Merritt, Twp. of Hanover, NY, March 12, 1874, and was worn thereafter as a “best dress.” The gown is made of 21 yards of Japanese silk, 9 yards of cambric, 1.5 yards drill, two spools of silk, and 1.75 yards edge, which cost $27.00 in 1874.

Date:

1874