Cotton nightdress, decorated with tucks, feather stitching and broderie anglaise embroidery, mid 19th century.
Victorian nightdresses were always white, with high necklines and long sleeves, demonstrating the purity and modesty of the wearer. Tucks and embroidery, using white thread, were the only decorations.
It was not until the Edwardian era that society accepted more glamorous and colourful nightwear.
Most of the content on A History of the World is created by the contributors, who are the museums and members of the public. The views expressed are theirs and unless specifically stated are not those of the BBC or the British Museum. The BBC is not responsible for the content of any external sites referenced. In the event that you consider anything on this page to be in breach of the site’s House Rules please Flag This Object.
Share this link:
What's this?