Printed Cotton Gown

1770s

Made of English printed cotton, it is believed that the gown was originally produced in the late eighteen century, possibly around the 1770s-1780s. The dress is cut with an opening at the centre front of the bodice, as originally it would have been worn with a separate central panel, known as a stomacher. There are no fastenings evident on the bodice, although it was common practice for the stomacher to be attached with either handsewn stitches or simply pinned into place when worn. From inspecting the inside of the garment at the back of the gown the original panels of the bodice remain intact, tapering into a flattering V shape. However, later alterations conceal this, with the skirt of the bodice now being stitched to join the bodice in a straight line, quite a bit higher than the original waistline.

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