Crinolines

Definition

Crinolines are structured petticoats or underskirts made from horsehair, cotton, or other materials that create volume and shape in women's skirts, particularly popular in the mid-19th century. They allowed dresses to flare out dramatically, enhancing the silhouette and offering support for elaborate styles. Crinolines reflect both fashion trends and technological advancements in materials that allowed for lighter and more voluminous designs.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The crinoline gained popularity in the 1850s and 1860s, coinciding with the Victorian era's emphasis on modesty and femininity.
2. Initially made from horsehair and cotton, crinolines evolved with the introduction of metal hoops, making them lighter and more comfortable to wear.
3. Crinolines had significant social implications, as they symbolized wealth and status, often being worn by upper-class women.
4. These garments also sparked safety concerns; their volume could cause difficulties in navigating doorways and posed risks of fire hazards due to their flammable materials.
5. The decline of crinolines began in the late 1860s as fashion shifted towards slimmer silhouettes, leading to the introduction of bustles and other forms of support.

Review Questions

• How did crinolines influence women's fashion during the Victorian era?
  • Crinolines significantly influenced women's fashion by creating a fuller silhouette that emphasized femininity and modesty, which were central to Victorian ideals. The structure allowed for intricate designs, including wide skirts adorned with lace and embroidery. This shift in style not only reflected societal values but also showcased advancements in textile technology that made such elaborate clothing possible.
• Discuss the materials used in the construction of crinolines and how they changed over time.
  • Originally, crinolines were constructed from horsehair or cotton, which provided the necessary structure while being somewhat heavy. As fashion evolved, materials transitioned to include lighter fabrics and introduced metal hoops that offered better support without excessive weight. This change improved comfort for wearers while still achieving the dramatic flair characteristic of the period's fashion trends.
• Evaluate the impact of crinolines on women's mobility and social behavior during their peak popularity.
  • Crinolines had a complex impact on women's mobility and social behavior; while they allowed for fashionable expression and signified social status, they also restricted movement significantly. Women often found it challenging to navigate crowded spaces or enter through doorways without assistance due to the voluminous nature of crinolines. This limitation shaped social interactions as women needed to adhere to certain etiquette when dressed in such elaborate garments, reinforcing societal norms regarding femininity and propriety.

Related terms

Bustle: A padded undergarment worn at the back of a woman's skirt in the late 19th century to create a fuller silhouette.

Hoop Skirt: A type of crinoline that incorporates hoops of flexible material to maintain shape, giving skirts a rounder appearance.

Corset: A fitted undergarment worn to shape and support the torso, often used in conjunction with crinolines to achieve a desired hourglass figure.