History Of Fashion 1800-1840

From 1800 to 1810 the bodices were becoming smaller, ending under the bust to achieve a high waist that defined the silhouette. THE necklines were low, and the sleeves were long and short. Most dresses generally opened in the front, they would use pins or drawstrings to close it. The skirts of the dresses had side openings, if any at all. White was the most popular color and little tripping was applied. The fabrics used were lightweight and had embroidery and details. For outerwear they would wear a Spencer jacket, (waist-length jackets named after Lord Spencer) pelisses, (a type of sleeved cloak) and a very common long shawl. From 1810 to 1820 dresses became more structures with padded hems and firmer fabrics. Soft colors returned after a leave of 10 years. Sleeves started to become fuller at the shoulder ,and high waist continued throughout this period but slowly started to lower as the years went by.
From 1820 to 1830 clothes became more complex and more structured. Horizontal hems added focus to skirts. For shoulder emphasis they used wide lapels. The waistline dropped down to the waist and a wide belt was often worn. People continued to wear pelisses and Spencer jackets for warmth.
From 1830 to 1840 the sleeves became enormous from the fullness at the shoulder lowering toward the elbow. The waist continued to be in it natural position. The necklines became very wide and bodice lines had a distinctive V-shape. Ankle length skirts became full and had to have several petticoats beneath it for support. This was the first vision of a hourglass silhouette. As time went on people needed alternative outerwear, because they couldn't fit the sleeves in to coats . So they started wearing cloaks. Cloaks became quite populars as did chemisettes (under bodices of net or lace) for low-necked gowns. Aprons were also a popular