10 Civil War Dresses That Shaped History

1. The Hoop Skirt

The most iconic Civil War dress is the hoop skirt. This voluminous garment was made of layers of fabric that were held out by hoops made of whalebone or metal. Hoop skirts were popular for special occasions, such as balls and parties. They were often decorated with lace, ribbons, and other embellishments.

2. The Bustle

The bustle was another popular Civil War dress. This garment was worn to create the illusion of a larger, more shapely figure. Bustles were made of fabric, horsehair, or other materials. They were attached to the back of the dress and created a bump at the waist.

3. The Chemise

The chemise was a simple, white undergarment that was worn under other dresses. Chemises were made of cotton or linen and were usually decorated with lace or embroidery. They were often worn as nightgowns as well.

4. The Drawers

Drawers were another type of undergarment that was worn under other dresses. Drawers were made of cotton or linen and were usually knee-length. They were often gathered at the ankles and were sometimes decorated with lace or embroidery.

5. The Petticoat

The petticoat was a knee-length or ankle-length skirt that was worn under other dresses. Petticoats were made of cotton or linen and were often decorated with lace or embroidery. They were used to add warmth and fullness to other skirts.

6. The Overskirt

The overskirt was a skirt that was worn over other skirts. Overskirts were made of a variety of fabrics, including cotton, linen, wool, and silk. They were often decorated with lace, ribbons, and other embellishments.

7. The Spencer

The spencer was a short jacket that was worn over other dresses. Spencers were made of a variety of fabrics, including cotton, linen, wool, and silk. They were often decorated with lace, buttons, and other embellishments.

8. The Shawl

The shawl was a large, rectangular piece of fabric that was worn around the shoulders. Shawls were made of a variety of fabrics, including wool, silk, and cashmere. They were often decorated with lace, embroidery, or other embellishments.

9. The Bonnet

The bonnet was a hat that was worn by women to protect their faces from the sun. Bonnets were made of a variety of materials, including straw, silk, and velvet. They were often decorated with lace, ribbons, and other embellishments.

10. The Gloves

Gloves were an essential accessory for women in the Civil War era. Gloves were made of a variety of materials, including leather, silk, and cotton. They were often decorated with lace, embroidery, or other embellishments.

Civil War Dresses: By the Numbers

• Number of hoops in a typical hoop skirt: 5-12
• Length of a typical bustle: 12-18 inches
• Number of garments in a typical Civil War woman's wardrobe: 10-15
• Cost of a typical Civil War dress: $10-$50

The Impact of Civil War Dresses

Civil War dresses had a significant impact on American fashion and culture. The hoop skirt, in particular, became a symbol of femininity and elegance. The bustle also became a popular fashion item, and it continued to be worn into the early 20th century.

Civil War dresses also played a role in the war effort. Women donated their dresses to make bandages for wounded soldiers. They also used their sewing skills to make uniforms and other supplies for the troops.

Frequently Asked Questions About Civil War Dresses

1. What were Civil War dresses made of?

Civil War dresses were made of a variety of fabrics, including cotton, linen, wool, and silk.

2. How long did it take to make a Civil War dress?

It took a skilled seamstress several days to make a Civil War dress.

3. What was the most popular color for Civil War dresses?

The most popular color for Civil War dresses was white.

4. What accessories did women wear with Civil War dresses?

Women wore a variety of accessories with Civil War dresses, including bonnets, shawls, gloves, and jewelry.

5. How did Civil War dresses differ from modern dresses?

Civil War dresses were much more restrictive than modern dresses. They were also made of heavier fabrics and were not as comfortable to wear.

6. What is the most famous Civil War dress?

The most famous Civil War dress is the dress that Mary Todd Lincoln wore to her husband's inauguration.

7. Where can I see Civil War dresses today?

Civil War dresses can be seen in museums and historical collections across the country.

8. How can I make my own Civil War dress?

There are a number of resources available online that can help you make your own Civil War dress.

Conclusion

Civil War dresses were an important part of American fashion and culture. They were also a symbol of the role that women played in the war effort.