I’m so excited to share this photo!  This is a wonderful example of the 1870’s style of women’s fashions.  Seven subjects give us seven examples of how the bustle and narrower form of dress was used during this decade.  Skirts moved from the voluminous hoop fashion, to the narrow skirt, especially in front, and the bustle and a bit of train in back.  Each of these woman give us an example of this style, but they are quite independent of each other.  The white and print dresses give us a glimpse of the bustle in back.  Of the other five, notice the difference in front buttons.  Two have buttons spaced very close, two others have buttons a bit further apart, and one has a quirky bodice cut that looks slashed!  Bits of lace and collars are seen at the throat, fastened with a brooch.  Some of the skirts are simple, but the two in front exhibit pleats, one with a corresponding color of fabric.  Is this a photo of sisters, school mates?  It gives us a striking example of the myriad of women’s fashions of the day.

Photo was taken by Lindsay in Robinson, Illinois.