Costumes of the Victorian era

Costumes of the Victorian era (1837-1901) were characterized by elaborate designs and strict social norms. Women wore long dresses with cinched waists, full skirts supported by crinolines, and intricate accessories like bonnets and gloves. Fabrics were often rich and detailed, reflecting social status. Men typically donned three-piece suits, including waistcoats and bowler hats, signaling propriety and class. Colors and patterns varied by occasion, with darker hues for mourning and bright colors for festivities. These fashions not only showcased personal style but also communicated adherence to societal expectations of modesty, class, and respectability during this transformative period.